Former University of Arizona head football coach Jedd Fisch accepted the Washington Huskies head coach job … now what does it mean for the Sun Devils?
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Fisch’s Success With The Wildcats
After becoming head coach in 2021 and having a rough first two seasons, Fisch turned the program around in 2023.
The Wildcats finished with a 10-3 record and defeated the Oklahoma Sooners 38-24 to take home the Alamo Bowl. This was the program’s first 10-win season in a decade as they ended with seven straight wins and as the No. 11 ranked team in the nation.
THAT’S OUR COACH.🗣️ https://t.co/JbfUkfxHcj
— Arizona Football (@ArizonaFBall) December 29, 2023
Considering the team’s recent success, this departure left Wildcat fans stunned.
This decision came as a result of former Washington coach Kalen DeBoer taking Alabama’s head coach job after Nick Saban’s sudden retirement. It is without a doubt that Fisch did an excellent job and will be missed by the Wildcats.
BREAKING: Alabama has hired former Washington HC Kalen DeBoer to be the team’s next head coach.
DeBoer, a South Dakota native, has served as the head coach at Fresno State and Washington.
In four seasons as a head coach, DeBoer has a 104-12 record.
DeBoer has done an… pic.twitter.com/Hbq0CyuTpQ
— Brody Smoot (@BrodySmoot) January 12, 2024
What It Means For ASU
Not only will the Wildcats have to scramble to find a new head coach, but they will also have almost an entirely new coaching staff from top to bottom. It is reported that Fisch will bring up to 10 coaches from Arizona’s staff to Washington.
Something else to note is that several Wildcat players may decide to enter the transfer portal following the news. Those who want to stay in the state will consider the Sun Devils as a landing option.
Wildcats Running back Jonah Coleman and quarterback Brayden Dorman have already entered the portal.
Second player to announce his transfer after Jedd Fisch’s departure… joining Jonah Coleman in the portal. https://t.co/73tf1DH2er
— Jenna Fink (@jennamfink) January 15, 2024
As both teams are heading to the Big 12 this year, the Sun Devils and Wildcats will continue their rivalry. The Sun Devils have won just six total games in the past two seasons. They have fallen short to the Wildcats in their last two matchups and desperately need a Territorial Cup Victory.
These changes for Arizona along with the team’s change to the Big 12, could be the opportunity Arizona State needs to regain an edge on the Wildcats.
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Saleh Awwad is a reporter/writer covering Phoenix High School Sports, Arizona State, and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on X via @SalehAwwad_
