Arizona State Sun Devils Rise as Big 12 Contenders with 4-1 Record

Arizona State is 4-1 (2-0 Big 12) after a wild 27-24 comeback over No. 24 TCU in which QB Sam Leavitt completed 27-of-39 for 291 yards, rushed for 62 yards and the Sun Devils outgained TCU 500-271, underscoring both their explosiveness and tendency to need late rallies. Head coach Kenny Dillingham credits the team’s success to weekly tactical flexibility—tweaking game plans, short-yardage decisions and leaning on offense, defense and the kicking game—which has produced close wins in many different ways. Media coverage and Dillingham’s press comments emphasize player growth and maturity, plus close coordination across programs (including basketball) on preparation and recovery. Despite a blemish to start the season, analysts call ASU a legitimate but “flawed” top-25-caliber team that can re-enter the rankings with continued performances like the TCU win. On the recruiting trail, ASU is actively pursuing 2027 cornerback Montre Jackson, who says ASU is among his top recruiters and plans to visit on 10/18 while also considering Penn State, Duke, Oklahoma, Tennessee and SMU.