Tue Jan 14 00:50:00 UTC 2025: **Arizona State Coach Dillingham Regrets Timeout Call in Peach Bowl Loss**
TEMPE, AZ – Arizona State University Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham has identified a key decision he would change following the team’s heartbreaking double-overtime loss to Texas in the Peach Bowl. Speaking on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Dillingham stated he would have refrained from calling a timeout on a fourth-and-one play in overtime. He believes keeping the timeout would have allowed him to use it strategically on a later, crucial play where Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers capitalized on a blown coverage for a game-tying touchdown.
Dillingham took full responsibility for the decision, emphasizing his “extreme ownership” philosophy. He praised his players’ performance, particularly highlighting safety Xavion Alford’s execution, and explained that Ewers’s successful play was a result of a late-game adjustment. Dillingham’s leadership style, described as hands-off and empowering, has contributed to the team’s rapid ascent. He stated that while he guides the team, “our players run the show.”
Despite the loss, Dillingham expressed confidence in the team’s future, citing the return of several key starters, including linebacker Sam Leavitt and wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, and the arrival of new players from the transfer portal. His approach focuses on empowering players to reach their full potential, a strategy that has already yielded significant results. The team’s success in the Peach Bowl, including running back Cam Skattebo’s MVP performance, underscores the efficacy of his methods.
While former Sun Devils Jayden Daniels and Zane Gonzalez celebrated a playoff victory with the Commanders, Dillingham and his staff are already focused on the upcoming season, looking to build upon the progress made this year.
First Piper 