In a stunning display of skill and determination, Arizona State‘s football team, entering the game as 7.5-point underdogs, delivered a convincing performance against No. 16 Kansas State, clinching a 24-14 victory that is likely to elevate them into the national rankings for the first time this season.
With a commanding lead of 21-0 by halftime and maintaining a 24-6 advantage heading into the final quarter, Arizona State’s dominance was evident, as they outgained Kansas State significantly with a total of 368 yards compared to the Wildcats’ mere 178 yards.
Following BYU’s unexpected defeat to Kansas, the Sun Devils have solidified their position in the race for a spot in the Big 12 football championship game, as they now fully control their own destiny; if they manage to win their remaining games, a championship berth is within their reach.
Here are the key takeaways from head coach Kenny Dillingham’s postgame press conference:
Dillingham on ASU’s statement victory
Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) passed for 275 yards and 3 touchdowns vs. Kansas State. / Scott Sewell-Imagn Images
“I think our performance today unequivocally demonstrates that we’re a formidable football team. If you look at our records, it’s clear that in the competitive world of the Big 12, anything can happen. We’ve faced two top 20 teams this year—one at home and one on the road—and emerged victorious. Yes, we lost to a couple of strong teams during our road games, but we did so without our starting quarterback, and I’m proud of the heart our players showed today. When opponents watch our film, they realize how hard our guys play for each other. That camaraderie fueled our chip-on-the-shoulder mentality, propelling us to achieve what many thought was impossible.”
Dillingham on his team’s underdog mindset
“It’s interesting to observe how our team’s demeanor changes from week to week. During pregame meals, there are no set rules; some players prefer silence, while others enjoy music. Last week, the atmosphere was light and filled with laughter, but this week, a sense of seriousness enveloped us. We exchanged glances, realizing that our focus was palpable. We were aware that this approach could have varying outcomes, but it gave us clarity. As we took the field, we had a collective focus, driven by the feeling of being disrespected going into the game.”
Dillingham on Sam Leavitt’s play
“Sam’s exceptional—it’s about time everyone acknowledges that. We need to recognize how fortunate we are to have him, especially for the next two to three years. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Sam has the talent to play on Sundays at the professional level. The sky is the limit for him, and I envision him becoming the face of Sun Devil football. Everyone tends to focus on me, but let’s be real: my success hinges on having a top-notch quarterback. So it’s time to shift the conversation onto Sam Leavitt. He’s one of the true leaders on our team and a crucial reason behind our current success.”
Dillingham on how much fun he’s having
“Absolutely! There’s no comparison—winning far surpasses the thrill of losing. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the hard work paying off for these guys.”
More Arizona State & Big 12 Analysis
How does the win against Kansas State impact Arizona State’s chances for the Big 12 Championship this season?
**Interview with Arizona State Football Head Coach Kenny Dillingham Following the Victory Over Kansas State**
**Interviewer**: Coach Dillingham, what a remarkable victory for Arizona State! How would you describe the team’s performance today against Kansas State?
**Kenny Dillingham**: Thank you! I think our performance today unequivocally demonstrates that we’re a formidable football team. We went into this game as 7.5-point underdogs, and to come out with a 24-14 victory really shows how our guys can rise to the occasion. Despite having faced some tough losses earlier this season, especially without our starting quarterback, the heart and determination our players showed today was inspiring.
**Interviewer**: You had a commanding lead of 21-0 by halftime. What do you believe contributed to such a dominant first half?
**Kenny Dillingham**: It all comes down to preparation and execution. Our game plan worked seamlessly, and we were able to outgain Kansas State significantly—368 yards to their 178. Our players executed their roles and played for each other, and that camaraderie really fueled our chip-on-the-shoulder mentality.
**Interviewer**: Considering this win, do you feel that Arizona State can secure a spot in the Big 12 Championship game this season?
**Kenny Dillingham**: Absolutely. With BYU’s loss, we now fully control our own destiny. If we can continue playing like we did today and win our remaining games, a championship berth is very much within reach. This victory is a huge step toward that goal, but we can’t afford to become complacent.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned the different atmospheres during pregame meals. How does the team’s mentality shift week to week?
**Kenny Dillingham**: It’s fascinating to see how our players adapt and respond. During pregame meals, some players prefer silence to focus, while others enjoy music to get hyped up. The dynamic can change based on the opponent and the circumstances of the week. Last week’s atmosphere was light, but today, you could sense the intensity. It’s about finding what works for each player, and today, it clearly clicked for us.
**Interviewer**: what are you most proud of from today’s performance?
**Kenny Dillingham**: I’m incredibly proud of our players’ resilience. Many counted us out, but we’ve proven that we can compete with top-tier teams. It’s about the heart they showed today, pushing through adversity and coming out strong. It’s this attitude that’s going to drive us forward for the rest of the season.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Coach Dillingham. Congratulations on the win, and best of luck for the rest of the season!
**Kenny Dillingham**: Thank you! Go Sun Devils!
