Sun Devils STILL ALIVE in Big 12 race?! Kenny Dillingham back for 2026 | Sam Leavitt and co. return?

In this episode of Devil’s Advocate with Richie Bradshaw, Richie dives into Arizona State football’s improbable but still possible path to the Big 12 Championship Game. Even with the bye week, there’s plenty to unpack about where ASU stands in the Big 12 race, what needs to happen around the conference for them to sneak into the title game, and how key wins over Texas Tech and TCU keep the Sun Devils alive. Richie breaks down the tiebreaker scenarios, the importance of BYU remaining undefeated, and what a nine or ten-win season could mean for ASU’s program momentum under Kenny Dillingham.

Richie also reacts to the major news that head coach Kenny Dillingham has told his players he’s staying through 2026. He explains why Dillingham’s commitment is massive for ASU’s stability, how Auburn’s rumored interest plays into the situation, and why the Sun Devils’ NIL collective must take another leap to secure their long-term success. From fan buy-in to booster involvement, Richie lays out what the program needs to do to continue rising in the new Big 12 landscape.

The episode also looks ahead to the remaining schedule with a deep dive into matchups against West Virginia, Colorado, and Arizona. Richie questions whether the West Virginia game could be a trap, explains why Colorado might be the trickiest test left on the schedule, and previews another heated Territorial Cup showdown with the Wildcats in Tempe. He also shares some personal excitement about attending the rivalry game and what this year’s matchup means for both programs.

Finally, Richie shifts focus toward the future, exploring the 2026 roster outlook and what happens if quarterback Sam Leavitt returns next season. He evaluates how Leavitt’s decision, along with Dillingham’s leadership, could influence the rest of the roster and recruiting classes moving forward. The conversation highlights the young talent ready to step up, the importance of the transfer portal, and how ASU can sustain its success beyond this year.

If you’re an Arizona State fan or follow Big 12 football closely, this episode is a must-listen for understanding where the Sun Devils stand now, what the future holds under Kenny Dillingham, and how ASU can cement its place as a true contender. Subscribe to stay up to date on weekly ASU coverage, Big 12 analysis, and exclusive insight from Richie Bradshaw.



TIMESTAMPS:
5:00 Big 12 race still open for ASU
17:30 ASU can win out
26:45 Duel in the Desert
33:00 Kenny Dillingham back for 2026
42:00 Keys to keeping Dilly in Tempe
49:15 Sam Leavitt returning for 2026?
53:00 What else could return for ASU?
59:00 All-In on youth/Transfer Portal

Forks up and let’s dive in — because sometimes, the best take is the one that plays Devil’s Advocate. #ForksUp #O2V #ActivateTheValley