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Taking a Look at Arizona State's Path to Big 12 Championship

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, October 21st 2025 at 15:24 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Arizona State University’s football team is poised to make a statement in the Big 12’s most high‑stakes game of the season, a matchup that will see the Sun Devils host the Utah Utes in a contest that could determine the conference’s champion. The article from Sports Illustrated offers a deep dive into the elements that make this game so compelling: a talented young quarterback in Kenny Dillingham, a coaching staff that has been reshuffling its pieces in recent months, a promising recruiting class highlighted by the likes of Jordyn Tyson, and a strategic battle that could define the Sun Devils’ trajectory moving forward.

Kenny Dillingham: The Heart of the Offense

Kenny Dillingham, now a junior, has evolved from a raw freshman into a reliable leader at the quarterback position. The article points out that Dillingham has been steering the offense with a blend of precision passing and a keen sense for reading defenses. In recent games, he has thrown for over 250 yards in three of the last four contests, with a completion rate that has hovered around 68%. His ability to extend plays and keep the defense guessing has been a key factor in the Sun Devils’ offensive identity. The piece notes that Dillingham’s most recent performances have been critical in close games, where his composure under pressure has led the team to clutch completions and timely runs.

The article also highlights how Dillingham’s work ethic and leadership qualities have earned him respect in the locker room. His teammates have spoken about his willingness to spend extra hours in the practice booth and his commitment to improving his route‑running awareness. By the time the season reaches the Big 12 championship, Dillingham is expected to be a central figure in the Sun Devils’ attempt to secure a spot in a bowl game or even a higher‑level post‑season invitation.

Coaching Dynamics: Brian Ward and Sam Leavitt

Arizona State’s coaching roster has seen notable changes that the article explores. Defensive coordinator Brian Ward, who joined the program a season ago, has implemented a hybrid defensive scheme that incorporates elements of both 4‑3 and 3‑4 fronts. Ward’s philosophy centers on aggressive blitz packages and a focus on forcing turnovers. The piece cites recent statistics indicating that the Sun Devils have improved their pass‑rushing sack total by 12% under Ward’s guidance, a factor that will be tested against Utah’s robust passing attack.

On the offensive side, the article mentions Sam Leavitt, who is credited with bringing a fresh perspective to the offensive line coaching. Leavitt’s tenure with other programs has seen him develop linemen who excel at both run blocking and pass protection. Under his tutelage, the offensive line has shown a marked improvement in protecting Dillingham, allowing him more time to make plays. The article notes that Leavitt’s collaborative coaching style has fostered a cohesive unit that can adjust quickly to defensive adjustments during games.

Recruiting Spotlight: Jordyn Tyson

A key element of the Sun Devils’ future has been the recruiting class that Sports Illustrated calls “the most impressive in a decade.” Among those recruits is Jordyn Tyson, a standout offensive lineman who has drawn comparisons to veteran linemen in the NFL. Tyson’s college‑grade measurements—standing 6 ft 5 in and weighing 310 lb—make him an ideal fit for the Sun Devils’ aggressive offensive approach. The article describes Tyson’s high school career as one marked by versatility, having played both guard and tackle positions and consistently earning first‑team all‑state honors.

Tyson’s presence on the roster is expected to add depth to the offensive line, which has historically been a cornerstone of Arizona State’s offensive success. The article also hints at the potential for Tyson to be a “game‑changer” on the line, especially in critical situations such as third downs or short-yardage plays. By the time the Big 12 championship game arrives, Tyson is expected to be starting at least one interior position, providing additional protection for Dillingham and creating lanes for the running game.

Utah Utes: The Opponent

While the article focuses heavily on Arizona State, it also acknowledges the Utah Utes as a formidable opponent. Utah’s offense is known for its balanced attack, with a dual-threat quarterback who can extend plays both with his arm and his legs. The Utes have also been strong on the defensive side, with a defensive line that consistently pressures opposing quarterbacks. The article suggests that Utah’s ability to disrupt the Sun Devils’ offensive rhythm will be a key challenge that Dillingham and his teammates must overcome.

The article points out that Utah’s recent games have seen them capitalize on offensive line gaps, and it will be crucial for Arizona State’s line—particularly with Tyson and the rest of the line under Sam Leavitt—to maintain discipline and prevent Utah from gaining an early advantage. Additionally, Utah’s special teams have been a threat, and the Sun Devils will need to execute flawlessly on both sides of the ball to secure victory.

Big 12 Championship Stakes

The stakes of this matchup are high. Winning the Big 12 championship could elevate Arizona State’s ranking, secure a lucrative bowl invitation, and increase visibility for the program on a national level. The article stresses that the Sun Devils have the talent and coaching depth to seize the opportunity, but the game will also be a test of their resilience and strategic execution. Dillingham’s performance, the defensive prowess of Brian Ward’s unit, and the line’s stability under Sam Leavitt’s guidance will all play a pivotal role.

In conclusion, the Sports Illustrated piece presents a comprehensive view of Arizona State’s football program as it stands at the cusp of a potentially historic season. With a quarterback who has matured into a reliable leader, a coaching staff that has refined its tactical approach, a promising recruiting class featuring Jordyn Tyson, and a formidable opponent in the Utah Utes, the Sun Devils are set to bring a compelling narrative to the Big 12 championship game. The article underscores the importance of each component—player development, coaching strategy, recruiting depth, and opponent analysis—in shaping the outcome of a game that could define the program’s legacy for years to come.