TEMPE — Arizona State’s return to the AP Top 25 poll this week is more than just a ranking — it marks ASU’s re-entry into the national spotlight, something fans had hoped would become the norm following last year’s Big 12 Championship win.
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Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) scrambles out of the pocket against TCU during a game at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Sept. 26, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Sun Devils opened the season ranked No. 11 in the AP Top 25, largely due to their 2024 run. They would then drop to No. 12 after an underwhelming performance on opening night and fell out of the poll the following week after a loss to Mississippi State.
Fans were frustrated with how the team opened the season, disappointed that ASU wasn’t playing up to its potential. After all, they’ve grown accustomed to tough times in the Valley.
Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) and head coach Kenny Dillingham celebrate after a win against TCU during a game at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Sept. 26, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Over the last years, the Sun Devils have been searching for identity in their football program. The team hired football legend Herm Edwards in 2018, hoping that the veteran coach would spark life into a program that desperately needed it.
Instead, ASU failed to take off under high expectations, finishing 26-20 overall and 1-2 in bowl games during his five-year tenure. A change was needed, as unfulfilled promises kept the Sun Devils from reaching their potential.
Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) catches a pass against TCU defensive back Channing Canada (7) on his way to a touchdown during a game at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Ariz., on Sept. 26, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Last year’s performance was what Arizona State was looking for. Fans have bought into what head coach Kenny Dillingham has invested, hoping ASU would stay in the national conversation.
Now, after some gritty wins and momentum, the team is forcing college football to take notice again. While a No. 25 ranking doesn’t guarantee anything, it’s a start. A start for the Sun Devils to fully overcome early struggles and play to their potential.
Game 5 cut 🎬 pic.twitter.com/Ae8bRqFR3j
— Sun Devil Football (@ASUFootball) September 28, 2025
As the defending Big 12 Champions with little margin for error, ASU fans are rallying behind a team that has finally invested in itself after years of frustration.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Arizona State re-enters AP Top 25 poll after win against TCU
