TEMPE — Arizona State was ranked No. 11 in the AP’s Top 25 College Football Preseason Poll, receiving its highest ranking since 1998.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What were the reasons for ASU’s top 15 ranking and what does this mean in terms of expectations?
Jan 1, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) passes the ball against the Texas Longhorns during the first half of the Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
AP ranks college football teams based on votes from 60 different journalists who extensively cover college football. The Sun Devils were previously ranked in 2021 but were kept off the preseason poll for the last three seasons, including 2024.
ASU went on to win the Big 12 title in 2024 and finished seventh among all schools. Ranking No. 11 holds significance in terms of expectations, with the Sun Devils hoping to duplicate last year’s success.
Dec 7, 2024; Arlington, TX, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham speaks with Arizona State Sun Devils defensive back Xavion Alford (2) during the first half against the Iowa State Cyclones at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
“Coach Kenny Dillingham has brought new life to a once-overlooked Arizona State program,” AP’s Maura Carey said. “Dillingham took over coming off a 3-9 season and in the past two years has transformed it into a championship-caliber team.”
Although some players, including standout Cam Skattebo, won’t return to the desert this season, the expectation is that Dillingham can lead the team to another successful year. The Sun Devils have addressed their areas of concern, including the kicker role that plagued them last year.
As we march on to victory 🗣️#ForksUp /// #CampTontozona pic.twitter.com/wCnitIWn3p
— Sun Devil Football (@ASUFootball) August 9, 2025
Arizona State has room to grow and not only meet expectations, but exceed them — just as it did last year.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
ASU’s Kenny Dillingham sees potential in international kicker this season
