TEMPE — Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham has made it clear he isn’t going anywhere, despite online speculation that he might leave the program next year.
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Sep 13, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham looks around after a game against Texas State Bobcats at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
According to Sun Devil Source’s Chris Karpman, ASU head coach Kenny Dillingham spoke to his players before their game against Iowa State about his plans to remain in the Valley for the 2026 season. The announcement provides a sense of relief and clarity about the team’s direction after this year.
Dillingham had been the subject of online speculation by fans and analysts about landing at Penn State or LSU, as both programs search for new head coaches for next season. With Dillingham’s commitment to remain at Arizona State, both schools will now need to look elsewhere.
ASU head coach Kenny Dillingham greets quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) during a game against Wyoming at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe on Aug. 31, 2024. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
“It’s somewhat flattering,” Dillingham said to PHNX Sun Devils on Nov. 4, on his name being mentioned in the head coach search. “Whatever you want to say, but like I say all the time, you go from sh-house to castle in this thing so fast.”
Coaching stability isn’t easy to come by, and Dillingham leaving during a crucial stretch in ASU football would have been devastating for the program. He has been credited with reigniting the team through transparency, player development and recruiting.
Dec 7, 2024; Arlington, TX, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham stands on the sidelines during the game against the Iowa State Cyclones at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images
For a program that has endured many setbacks before Dillingham’s tenure, his commitment to stay reflects his desire to continue building the team in the Valley.
Dillingham’s decision to stay showcases his loyalty not only to his players and the program but also to the Valley that has welcomed him and continues to support his vision for the Sun Devils.
Sources: Kenny Dillingham walked into position meetings last week, ahead of a win over Iowa State, to tell his players that he would continue to lead Arizona State into next season, three people apprised of his comments told @SunDevilSource. More info:https://t.co/NTBhD7aJDn
— Chris Karpman (@ChrisKarpman) November 6, 2025
While the team still needs to focus on this season, knowing that a leader like Dilinngham will continue to be Arizona State’s head coach next year brings stability to what was once uncertain.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
