Arizona State University (ASU) head coach Kenny Dillingham expressed his deep affection for the institution on Saturday, as he aims to finalize an improved contract amid speculation regarding a potential job offer from the University of Michigan. Following a bowl practice in Tempe, Dillingham, visibly emotional, stated, “I love this place,” before pausing to regain his composure.
Dillingham, a native of the area who played and studied at ASU, returned to his alma mater as head coach in late 2022. He confirmed that discussions are ongoing between his agent and the university regarding a revised contract. “They sent my agent one after the last game at some point,” he mentioned. “I’m not really involved in that. That’s kind of my team. I coach football.”
The speculation around Dillingham intensified late Friday when a number of Michigan players began following him on social media. He acknowledged Michigan’s prestige, noting it is “one of the best programs in the country” with “one of the best logos in the country.” The Wolverines recently parted ways with coach Sherrone Moore after he violated university policy by engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.
Despite the rumors, Dillingham stated he has not had any discussions with Michigan about its coaching vacancy. He emphasized his commitment to ASU, saying, “That doesn’t change how I feel about here. That doesn’t change that my sister’s my neighbor. That doesn’t change that my parents live three doors down.” He did acknowledge the appeal of the Michigan position, calling it “an unbelievable brand, an iconic brand, so a great opportunity for somebody.”
In his tenure at ASU, Dillingham has led the Sun Devils to a Big 12 title and an appearance in the College Football Playoff in 2024, marking a significant achievement in the program’s first season in the conference. His overall record stands at 22-16 over three seasons with the team. ASU is scheduled to face ACC champion Duke on December 31, 2024, in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl.
Throughout this coaching cycle, Dillingham has been linked to various high-profile positions, including LSU, but he has consistently reaffirmed his dedication to ASU. Alongside Dillingham, other potential candidates for the Michigan job include Kalen DeBoer, the head coach at Alabama, and Jedd Fisch, the current coach at Washington and former assistant under Jim Harbaugh at Michigan.
As the coaching carousel continues, Dillingham’s future remains a focal point for both ASU and Michigan fans, with significant implications for both programs as they navigate the off-season.
