In just one year, Kenny Dillingham has managed to transform Arizona State University’s football program—but his methods have raised eyebrows, ruffled feathers, and left a trail of controversy in their wake.
When Dillingham took over as head coach, ASU was in shambles—struggling to recover from NCAA investigations, subpar recruiting, and a lack of identity on the field. However, his solution wasn’t a slow and steady rebuild. Instead, he orchestrated a complete overhaul that left no aspect of the program untouched. From aggressively recruiting players through the transfer portal to benching veterans in favor of unproven newcomers, Dillingham’s approach was unapologetically cutthroat.
A Revolving Door of Talent
Under Dillingham’s leadership, ASU became one of the most active programs in the transfer portal. Players were brought in en masse, while others were quietly shown the door. Critics argue that this strategy sacrificed team chemistry and loyalty in favor of short-term gains. One anonymous former player described the environment as “toxic,” claiming that players were treated like disposable assets.
“They don’t care about your development or your future here,” the player said. “If you’re not performing immediately, you’re gone.”
Alienating the Old Guard
Dillingham didn’t just rebuild the roster—he gutted ASU’s coaching staff and support personnel, replacing them with a new wave of young, analytics-driven hires. While this modernization has drawn praise from some, it’s also alienated alumni and long-time supporters who feel the program has lost its soul.
“When you erase the culture and tradition of ASU football, what are you really left with?” asked one former assistant coach who was let go during Dillingham’s purge. “It’s not just about winning—it’s about how you win.”
Results at Any Cost
On the field, the results have been undeniable. ASU posted a winning record for the first time in years, and fans have flocked back to Sun Devil Stadium to watch the new-look team. However, questions remain about the sustainability of Dillingham’s approach.
Some worry that his win-now mentality has mortgaged the program’s future. The reliance on transfers over high school recruits could leave the team vulnerable in the long term, while the lack of continuity risks creating a revolving door of players and staff.
Dividing a Fanbase
For every fan who praises Dillingham as a savior, there’s another who sees him as a symbol of what’s wrong with modern college football. The divide has grown deeper with every bold decision, from sidelining beloved players to his aggressive sideline demeanor during games.
Love him or hate him, Kenny Dillingham has undeniably put ASU football back on the map. But at what cost? As the dust settles from his controversial first year, the question lingers: Has he built a foundation for lasting success—or simply a house of cards destined to collapse under its own weight?
For now, all eyes remain on Dillingham, the man who was willing to burn everything down to build ASU football back up. Time will tell if his gamble was genius—or madness.