In a surprising turn of events, Arizona State football coach Kenny Dillingham has already done enough to earn a Big 12 Coach of the Year title, according to Arizona Republic columnist Greg Moore. Dillingham’s leadership has catapulted the Sun Devils to the top of the Big 12 standings, defying all expectations after taking over a program that many predicted would finish at the bottom.
Moore, who had been one of Dillingham’s harshest critics since his hire, is now eating humble pie, acknowledging his mistake and issuing a public apology through a playful song. The columnist had long doubted Dillingham’s ability to succeed, especially given his young age and lack of experience leading a major program. Yet, after Dillingham’s stunning victories—including the impressive win over Utah—Moore has come around, conceding that the coach is the real deal.
“I’ve been thinking ’bout my thoughtful words, and I didn’t care how much they must have hurt, and I take it back; Kenny, please let me take it back,” Moore wrote, sharing his musical apology in a lighthearted manner, set to the tune of Chris Stapleton’s “I Was Wrong.” Moore admitted that despite his past skepticism, Dillingham had proven his worth and shown that the program had made the right choice by hiring him.
However, Moore remains cautious about the Sun Devils’ future, warning that while Dillingham’s performance this season has been nothing short of remarkable, the dream could come to a halt in the Big 12 Championship Game against Iowa State. While ASU has exceeded expectations this year, Moore suggests the team is unlikely to make it into the College Football Playoff, given the tough competition in the conference.
Moore also pointed out that the Big 12 has historically been overlooked in college football, likely limiting the Sun Devils’ chances of breaking into the playoff even with a strong season. He praised Dillingham’s ability to defy expectations, but warned fans to cherish the current success, as the path forward may not be as bright.
While Moore’s tone is playful, his message is clear: Dillingham has exceeded expectations and proven his worth as a head coach, but the journey to sustained success in a competitive conference like the Big 12 may be much tougher in the seasons ahead. For now, though, Arizona State fans can celebrate a remarkable turnaround led by a coach who has truly earned his stripes.
