On a dramatic Wednesday in Atlanta, the Arizona State Sun Devils, led by their ambitious and young head coach Kenny Dillingham, came agonizingly close to rewriting the script in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. Matched up against the formidable Texas Longhorns, a team that entered the game as heavy favorites with a 13.5-point advantage, few believed the Sun Devils had any realistic chance of pulling off an upset. Most pundits and fans had already written off Arizona State, predicting an inevitable end to their remarkable season. However, what unfolded on the field proved that the Sun Devils were not there just to make up the numbers—they were there to fight, inspire, and leave a lasting impression.
From the opening whistle, the game proved to be a battle of determination and willpower. The Longhorns quickly established their dominance, using their physicality and precision to build a commanding lead. By the fourth quarter, Arizona State found themselves trailing by 16 points, their hopes of advancing to the College Football Playoff semifinals appearing to dwindle with every passing minute. But what followed was a display of grit and resilience that showcased the heart of a team unwilling to back down, no matter the odds.
Arizona State’s comeback began with a renewed offensive spark, led by star running back Cam Skattebo. Known for his tenacity and big-play ability, Skattebo ignited the Sun Devils’ resurgence, delivering a series of crucial runs that kept their faint hopes alive. With the clock winding down, Arizona State’s offense found its rhythm, orchestrating a series of drives that left the Texas defense scrambling. Skattebo’s leadership on the field was complemented by sharp decision-making from quarterback Sam Leavitt, whose composure under pressure played a pivotal role in tying the game.
When the dust settled after four quarters of play, the score was improbably level. The Sun Devils, who had been dismissed as 13.5-point underdogs, had clawed their way back into contention, sending the game into overtime. At that moment, it seemed as if Arizona State was destined for a fairytale finish—a victory that would cement their place in college football lore.
Overtime proved to be a test of nerves, as both teams traded blows in a high-stakes battle. However, it was in the second overtime where Arizona State’s dreams began to unravel. A critical interception thrown by Leavitt handed the momentum back to the Longhorns. Texas capitalized on the turnover, finding the end zone and sealing the game with a decisive touchdown. The Sun Devils’ valiant effort had fallen just short, their hopes of advancing in the College Football Playoff dashed.
As the final whistle echoed through the stadium, emotions ran high for the Sun Devils. Players, visibly heartbroken, began to make their way toward the locker room. But in a moment that would come to define the character of Kenny Dillingham as a coach and leader, he stopped his team. Instead of retreating in defeat, Dillingham instructed his players to return to the field to shake hands with their opponents. This gesture of sportsmanship, rare in such emotionally charged moments, sent a powerful message about the values he is instilling in the program.
Videos and images of Arizona State’s players congratulating the Longhorns quickly spread across social media, earning widespread admiration. Fans and commentators alike praised Dillingham for his principled leadership. “Mad respect for Kenny as a coach! True leadership! ASU is lucky to have him,” wrote one fan. Another comment read, “RESPECT. Kenny D is a real one.” Others reflected on the lessons imparted by Dillingham, with one remarking, “Yes! Have to learn how to win with class AND lose with class. Thank you, Coach!”
The praise didn’t stop there. Many saw Dillingham’s actions as emblematic of a bright future for Arizona State football. “It hurts right now, but the future at Arizona State is still very bright with a coach like Kenny Dillingham,” one fan declared. Another added, “How can anyone not like this man?”
While the loss marked the end of the Sun Devils’ season, it was far from the end of their story. Under Dillingham’s leadership, Arizona State has experienced a dramatic transformation. Just a year removed from a disappointing 3-9 campaign in 2023, the Sun Devils rebounded with an impressive 11-3 record, claiming the Big 12 championship and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. This rapid turnaround is a testament to Dillingham’s vision, coaching acumen, and ability to inspire his players.
More than just a coach, Dillingham has emerged as a leader who prioritizes character and integrity. His emphasis on humility, respect, and sportsmanship has resonated not only with his team but also with the broader college football community. Moments like the postgame handshake remind everyone that football is about more than just wins and losses—it’s about the lessons learned along the way.
For the Sun Devils, the 2024 season will be remembered not just for their on-field success but for the culture shift that has taken root under Dillingham’s guidance. While the sting of the Peach Bowl loss may linger, it is overshadowed by the sense of hope and possibility that now surrounds the program. Arizona State’s future is undoubtedly bright, and with Dillingham at the helm, the Sun Devils are poised to achieve even greater heights in the years to come.
Kenny Dillingham Praised For What he Did After CFP Loss To Texas
