The Arizona State Sun Devils are entering the 2024 college football season with a renewed sense of energy and optimism. After a few seasons of mixed results, there’s a buzz around the team as they look to make their mark in the competitive Pac-12. Under the leadership of head coach Kenny Dillingham, who has brought fresh ideas and a more dynamic approach to both sides of the ball, the Sun Devils are aiming to be more than just contenders—they’re looking to surprise. With key returning players, new recruits, and a challenging schedule, here’s what to expect from Arizona State’s 2024 season.
Coaching and Offseason Developments
Kenny Dillingham, entering his second season as head coach, has been working tirelessly to instill a winning culture and a high-octane style of play. Known for his offensive creativity, Dillingham has focused on strengthening the Sun Devils’ attack, aiming to generate more scoring opportunities and keep opposing defenses off balance. He has also revamped the team’s conditioning and training, emphasizing endurance and speed to handle the high-tempo playstyle he envisions.
The offseason was productive for Arizona State, with the coaching staff addressing roster gaps through both recruiting and transfers. Dillingham’s reputation for working well with young players has helped attract talent, and he has assembled a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting newcomers, giving fans a lot to look forward to this season.
Key Returning Players
Arizona State boasts a solid group of returning players who will be pivotal to their success. Here are some of the players to watch:
1. Jaden Rashada (Quarterback)
After showing flashes of brilliance last season, Rashada is expected to take a big leap in 2024. Known for his athleticism and strong arm, he has the tools to run Dillingham’s dynamic offense. With another offseason of development and a better understanding of the system, Rashada could be a breakout star if he improves his consistency and decision-making.
2. Elijhah Badger (Wide Receiver)
As a standout receiver, Badger returns as the primary target in the passing game. His speed and route-running ability make him a reliable playmaker, and he’s shown a knack for making big plays when the Sun Devils need them most. With Rashada’s improvement, Badger could be in line for a huge season.
3. Jordan Clark (Defensive Back)
Clark brings leadership and experience to the Sun Devils’ secondary. Known for his ability to read plays and make quick adjustments, he is a critical component of the defensive backfield. His ball skills and tackling ability make him an anchor in coverage, and his leadership will be essential to guiding the younger players in the secondary.
4. B.J. Green (Defensive Lineman)
Green is an explosive presence on the defensive line, capable of pressuring quarterbacks and disrupting the backfield. His agility and strength make him a difficult matchup for offensive linemen, and his ability to generate pressure is crucial for ASU’s defensive success. Green will need to be at his best for Arizona State to control the line of scrimmage and contain some of the high-powered offenses they’ll face.
New Additions and Key Recruits
The Sun Devils have brought in several new faces who are expected to contribute right away, especially in positions where depth was an issue last season.
1. Isaiah Taylor (Linebacker)
Taylor, a highly touted linebacker recruit, brings speed and physicality to the defense. Known for his sideline-to-sideline range, he has the ability to cover the field and make tackles in space. Taylor could be a crucial part of Arizona State’s defensive scheme, especially in passing situations where coverage ability is key.
2. Dylan Tapley (Tight End)
Tapley is a promising addition to the Sun Devils’ offense, offering a big target for Rashada. His versatility allows him to line up in multiple spots, providing mismatches against opposing defenses. Tapley’s hands and route-running make him an appealing option in the red zone, where he could quickly become a favorite target.
3. Defensive Backs Transfer Class
Arizona State was active in the transfer portal, bringing in multiple defensive backs to bolster the secondary. These transfers bring valuable experience, and their impact will be immediately felt, particularly against pass-heavy teams in the Pac-12. Their ability to mesh with returning players like Jordan Clark will be crucial for the defense’s effectiveness.
Schedule Overview
The Sun Devils’ 2024 schedule presents a mix of tough conference opponents and a few notable non-conference matchups. Here are some of the key games and challenges:
Non-Conference Games
- Fresno State: Fresno State has been a formidable program in recent years, and this game will test ASU’s readiness early in the season. Fresno State’s offense is known for its balance, so Arizona State’s defense will need to be on point to come out with a win.
- Oklahoma State: This is one of ASU’s toughest non-conference matchups. Oklahoma State has a strong program and will test the Sun Devils on both sides of the ball. A win here would be a massive confidence boost and a potential resume-builder for postseason consideration.
Pac-12 Conference Games
- USC: Facing USC, a team with one of the best offenses in the country, will be a true test for Arizona State’s defense. USC’s high-powered passing attack will challenge the secondary, and the Sun Devils will need to score consistently to keep up.
- Oregon: The Ducks are always a tough opponent, and this year will be no different. Known for their explosive offense, Oregon will test ASU’s defensive stamina and their ability to contain big plays. This game could have high stakes for Pac-12 standings.
- Arizona (Territorial Cup): The rivalry game with Arizona is always intense, and this season will be no different. Both teams will likely be fighting for bragging rights and potentially bowl eligibility, making this matchup a must-win for both sides.
Key Season Goals and Expectations
Arizona State enters the 2024 season with ambitions to improve on last year’s record and compete for a mid-tier bowl game. Here are some of the key objectives for the season:
- Achieve Bowl Eligibility: Returning to bowl eligibility is a priority for the Sun Devils as they aim to reestablish themselves as contenders in the Pac-12.
- Establish Offensive Consistency: Dillingham’s offense relies on tempo and unpredictability, and achieving offensive consistency will be key to keeping opposing defenses off balance.
- Solidify the Defense: The defense had its ups and downs last season. The addition of transfers and recruits, along with returning talent like Green and Clark, should provide the defense with the stability needed to withstand high-powered offenses.
X-Factors for the Season
Several factors will determine Arizona State’s success in the 2024 season:
- Quarterback Development: Rashada’s progression as a decision-maker and leader will have a direct impact on ASU’s ability to score points and control games. His connection with receivers like Badger will be crucial in big games.
- Turnover Margin: Winning the turnover battle will be essential, especially in close games. Arizona State’s defense has playmakers capable of forcing turnovers, and the offense must focus on protecting the ball.
- Stamina in Key Matchups: With a high-tempo offense and a defense that faces several prolific Pac-12 offenses, Arizona State’s conditioning and ability to play hard for four quarters will be tested repeatedly.
Season Outlook
The 2024 season has the potential to be a breakthrough year for the Sun Devils. If they can execute Dillingham’s vision, develop consistency on offense, and strengthen their defensive capabilities, Arizona State could become one of the surprise teams in the Pac-12. While competing for a conference championship may be an ambitious goal given the strength of the Pac-12, a winning record and bowl eligibility are within reach.
The key to a successful season will be resilience and adaptability, as the Sun Devils navigate a tough schedule. With exciting young talent and a coaching staff committed to revitalizing the program, Arizona State fans have every reason to be excited about the direction of their team.
The Sun Devils have the pieces in place to make 2024 a season to remember, and as they take on the challenges ahead, they’ll be looking to make a bold statement in the Pac-12.
