Kenny Dillingham, head coach of Arizona State, decided to stay with the Sun Devils despite interest from prominent programs like Auburn and Michigan. After leading Arizona State to a Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024, Dillingham's name emerged in connection with these high-profile coaching vacancies following the 2025 season.
In an interview with Yahoo Sports, Dillingham acknowledged the potential risk of passing on such opportunities but emphasized his desire to coach football and find happiness in his current role. He stated, "I don’t care about being at a blue blood. I want to coach football and be happy."
Dillingham, a Phoenix native, has described leading Arizona State as his dream job, with family ties in the area. Despite a setback in the 2025 season, where the team finished 8-5 due to injuries and the loss of key players, he opted to use the interest from other schools to secure a raise and increased resources for his coaching staff.
He has also actively sought support from local donors to enhance the program’s financial standing, stating, "What’s wrong with saying the truth?" Dillingham expressed a commitment to building a sustainable program rather than seeking immediate success, saying, "I just want to see growth. I’m not in a hurry."
