All Business in Week 1: ASU Coach Dillingham’s Message Ahead of NAU
- Jordon Leon
- Aug 25
- 5 min read
Ahead of Arizona State University's season opener against Northern Arizona University (NAU), Head Coach Kenny Dillingham addressed the media during his weekly press conference. He began by emphasizing the importance of not underestimating NAU, a team that has earned a spot in the Top 25 of the FCS Coaches Poll.
“NAU is not a team we can afford to overlook,” Dillingham stated. “They’re well-coached, disciplined, and ranked among the top programs in the FCS. We have to treat this game with the same intensity and preparation as any other.”
With a challenging Week 2 matchup against SEC opponent Mississippi State looming, Dillingham made it clear that the team’s focus remains squarely on the task at hand. “We’re not looking ahead. Our priority is to execute against NAU and set the tone for the season,” he added.
The message was clear: ASU is approaching this opener with respect for their opponent and a commitment to maintaining focus, regardless of what lies ahead. The Sun Devils are determined to start strong and build momentum, knowing that every game counts in their pursuit of a successful season.
The Rise of Sam Leavitt:
Over the past 12 months, it has been nothing short of remarkable to witness the astronomical rise of quarterback sensation Sam Leavitt. From a redshirt freshman transfer to a preseason All-American and a legitimate “dark horse” Heisman contender, Sam’s journey has been a spectacle for fans and analysts alike.
During Monday’s press conference, Head Coach Kenny Dillingham was asked how a player could make such a significant leap in their first year within a new system. His response was telling: “It is very hard to find someone who loves ball as much as Sam does. He goes out every day with the intention of getting better. Regardless of who is around him or whether they want to get better, he is not going to let that stop him from improving.”
Coach Dillingham also emphasized that Sam’s humility is just as impressive as his talent. “He doesn’t let the fame get to his head. He just goes out and shows every day why he loves ball,” Dillingham said.
Beyond the field, Sam’s impact on the program is equally profound. Stories have circulated in the media about his deep connection to the team and his commitment to the program. When he’s not practicing, Sam dedicates his time to helping teammates secure NIL deals, even going so far as to share his own NIL earnings from merchandise sales with them. These actions speak volumes about his character and leadership. He’s not just a star athlete—he’s a team-first guy who’s in it for the love of the sport, not the money or the spotlight.
Sam Leavitt’s rise is more than a football story—it’s a testament to passion, perseverance, and selflessness. And if the trajectory continues, this season could be one for the ages.
Coach Ward’s Blueprint: Turning Defense into ASU’s Strength
Many things can be said about the impact a defense has on a football team, but this season, the Sun Devils are truly poised to hang their hat on that side of the ball. The phrase “Offense sells tickets. Defense wins championships,” often attributed to legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, perfectly captures the philosophy Arizona State appears to be embracing this year.
From the offensive side to the defensive side, fans won’t see many changes in personnel—ASU retains an impressive 90% of its roster from last season. While the names on the backs of the jerseys remain largely the same, that doesn’t mean the team won’t be showing different looks. Expect strategic shifts and new schemes designed to maximize the talent already in place.
During Monday’s press conference, Head Coach Kenny Dillingham addressed anticipated changes on defense. “Last season we were ranked very low in rushing the passer,” he said. “I guarantee you that we will be significantly better there. In addition, we’ve done a lot of work in the off-season on disguising the defense to be something that it is not—to allow for additional pressures, stunts, etc.”
All in all, it sounds like Defensive Coordinator Brian Ward has his hands full, but the team is set to reap the benefits of his efforts. With a renewed focus on pressure and deception, ASU’s defense could be the cornerstone of a championship-caliber season.
No Weak Links: ASU’s Roster Depth Sets the Tone for 2025
On both sides of the ball, Arizona State University is absolutely stacked. It’s difficult to pinpoint a position group where the Sun Devils won’t excel this season. Without naming every single spot on the depth chart, it’s clear that ASU has built a roster that’s deep, talented, and ready to compete at a high level.
Defensively, the front line is anchored by a formidable trio: Zac Swanson, CJ Fite, and Jacob Rich Kongaika. These three bring size, strength, and relentless energy to the trenches. In the secondary, ASU boasts a dynamic group led by Myles "Ghost" Rowser, Xavion Alford, and Adrian "Boogie" Wilson. Whether it’s stopping the run or defending the pass, this defense is built to frustrate opposing offenses and create game-changing plays.
On the offensive side, the weapons are just as dangerous. The receiving corps features standout talents like Jordyn Tyson, Malik McClain, Jaren Hamilton, and rising star Chamon Metayer. Add in rookie phenom Aj Ia, and you’ve got a group that can stretch the field and make plays at every level.
In the backfield, ASU rolls out a true “three-headed monster” with Kanye Udoh, Kyson Brown, and Raleek Brown, not to mention the explosive Demarius "Man Man" Robinson. With this kind of depth and versatility, it’s not a matter of what ASU will do on offense—it’s a matter of who will step up each night to make it happen.
While Jordyn Tyson is expected to lead the way from the WR1 position and Kanye Udoh likely takes the bulk of the RB1 reps, the rest of the offense is a rotating cast of playmakers. This unpredictability makes game planning a nightmare for opposing defenses. With so many options at their disposal, the Sun Devils can tailor their attack to exploit any weakness—and that’s a luxury few teams can claim.