Arizona State’s Remarkable Season Earns Kenny Dillingham and Six Players Big 12 Honors

The Arizona State Sun Devils have solidified their place in college football’s elite with a stellar season that culminated in a Big 12 Championship. Head coach Kenny Dillingham and six standout players received major recognition in the Associated Press’ Big 12 awards, marking a season that transformed ASU from underdogs to national contenders.

A Season of Turnaround

Dillingham, unanimously named Coach of the Year, masterminded the Sun Devils’ dramatic rise from a 3-9 record last year to an 11-2 finish, securing the No. 4 seed in the College Football Playoff (CFP). His leadership reshaped the team’s culture, turning a roster largely comprised of transfers into a cohesive and competitive unit. ASU’s climb from last in the Big 12 Preseason Media Poll to conference champions exemplifies Dillingham’s vision and determination.

Star Performers Shine Bright

Sam Leavitt, the Sun Devils’ freshman quarterback, took home Newcomer of the Year honors. Despite stepping in after Jaden Rashada transferred to Georgia, Leavitt thrived, completing 62.7% of his passes for 2,444 yards, 21 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. Under his guidance, ASU posted an impressive 11-1 record during the regular season.

On the offensive side, running back Cam Skattebo delivered a season to remember. His dominant performance included 1,398 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns, and 468 receiving yards with two additional scores. Skattebo’s consistency made him a cornerstone of ASU’s success and earned him a first-team All-Big 12 selection.

Wide receiver Jordyn Tyson also had a breakout year with 75 receptions for 1,101 yards and 14 touchdowns before an injury sidelined him late in the season. His chemistry with Leavitt added a dynamic element to the Sun Devils’ offense, making him a second-team honoree.

Defensive Anchors

The defensive unit, led by first-team All-Big 12 selection Xavion Alford, showed resilience and skill throughout the season. Alford, returning from two years of setbacks, emerged as a leader with 75 tackles and two interceptions. His contributions were instrumental in ASU’s ability to compete at the highest level. Defensive lineman CJ Fite also earned second-team recognition, underscoring the balance in the Sun Devils’ performance.

Eyes on the Playoff

The Sun Devils now await their CFP opponent, the winner of the matchup between No. 5 Texas and No. 12 Clemson. The Peach Bowl on January 1 in Atlanta will mark ASU’s first appearance in the playoff, a fitting culmination of their “Cinderella Story” season.

Arizona State’s meteoric rise in 2024 stands as a testament to the impact of strong leadership, teamwork, and individual brilliance. With a roster of standout players and a visionary coach in Dillingham, the Sun Devils have proven they belong on college football’s biggest stage.