In a season where expectations were anything but high, the Arizona State Sun Devils have defied all odds to secure the Big 12 Championship in spectacular style. Following their monumental victory, Coach Kenny Dillingham shared insights into the team’s remarkable journey, unwavering resilience, and promising future.
A Championship Season Worth National Recognition
When questioned about Arizona State’s playoff prospects, Dillingham didn’t hold back. “We’re 11-1 with our starting quarterback, having beaten four ranked teams and winning the Big 12 Championship,” he emphasized. “Because of the standard of quarterback play and the value he brings, I think we’ve earned a bye. And I definitely think we should host a game.”
Arizona State’s ascent is all the more impressive considering they began the season ranked dead last in preseason Big 12 projections. The championship victory has elevated the Sun Devils into national playoff conversations, solidifying their position as a formidable force in college football.
Cam Scatterbu Leads a Collective Effort
A pivotal figure in the Sun Devils’ success has been Cam Scatterbu, whose growth and preparation have shone throughout the season. Coach Dillingham praised Scatterbu for his consistency, saying, “He prepared the exact same way he always prepares—so mature.” Scatterbu’s performance in the championship game underscored his speed, poise, and development.
But Dillingham made it clear this was a team effort: “It wasn’t just one person stepping up. X stepped up, Stoll Ball stepped up, the O-line stepped up. Sam Levitz continues to be an unbelievable football player.”
The defense also played a crucial role, forcing three turnovers in the second half to cement the Sun Devils’ dominance. “It’s like a scene from a movie,” Dillingham remarked, highlighting the defense’s relentless drive and collective effort.
From Underdogs to Big 12 Champions
Arizona State’s transformation this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. Dillingham reflected on how the team’s mindset shifted, especially after a pivotal Week 11 loss. “The growth of this team is remarkable,” he said. “They took it personally after Week 11 when we let another team come back. They’ve been living it—not just rah-rah, but real focus at halftime.”
The Sun Devils have embraced Dillingham’s vision, evolving into a squad that finishes games with precision and tenacity. “When your players run your program, you’re good,” Dillingham explained. “These guys have an unbelievable maturity about themselves to lead their team.”
Bold Calls and Defining Moments
Throughout the season, Arizona State thrived on decisive play-calling and clutch performances. One standout moment in the championship game was a bold fourth-and-one play early on. “That was Coach Royal,” Dillingham said, crediting his staff. “He called it. I trust our quarterback and players… Incredible play call, incredible execution.”
A season-defining moment occurred two weeks earlier against BYU, where a turnover changed the course of the game. “It was huge,” Dillingham reflected. “Our guys took what we adjusted at halftime, applied it, and capitalized. That’s just really good team football.”
Big 12 Challenges Pave the Way
Dillingham credited the depth and intensity of the Big 12 Conference for preparing the Sun Devils for the playoffs. “This is a really, really deep league,” he noted. “The difficulty isn’t just the teams, but the environments you go into.”
Looking ahead, the coach is optimistic about the program’s trajectory. “We have great leadership. These guys have accomplished things I don’t know if any team has,” he said, highlighting their journey from being picked last to becoming champions.
Dillingham had a clear message for the playoff committee: “Being picked 16th out of 16th and then winning a championship… I think it’s time to double down on how important quarterbacks are.”
Arizona State: A New Era of Excellence
The Arizona State Sun Devils’ Big 12 Championship signals a turning point for the program. Under Dillingham’s leadership, Arizona State has transformed from an underdog into a team destined for greatness.
As the playoffs approach, the Sun Devils are not just contenders—they’re a team to beat. Their championship journey may have concluded one chapter, but the story is far from over.