Tonight’s Big 12 clash between Arizona State and No. 16 Utah is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for both programs. ASU head coach Kenny Dillingham believes this game will reveal just how far the Sun Devils have come since he took the helm in November 2022. Facing Utah, a team known for its toughness and physicality, presents a significant test for the Sun Devils as they look to prove they’ve arrived as a legitimate contender in the conference.
Dillingham has openly admired the way Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham has built his program, particularly praising their “culture of toughness.” In his Monday press conference, Dillingham noted how Utah’s success wasn’t built on winning recruiting battles but on developing players who fit their system. “They didn’t care what other people thought. They signed those guys and built a culture of toughness,” he said. It’s that same mentality Dillingham wants to instill in his Arizona State team.
The Sun Devils (4-1, 1-1) come into the game as 4.5-point underdogs, but there’s a sense of optimism around the program. CBS Sports’ Jerry Palm even picked Arizona State as his upset of the week, believing the Sun Devils are ready to make a statement. However, for ASU to topple Utah, they’ll need to match the Utes’ physical style of play. “You really can’t force a team like this out of their element unless you match their toughness and physicality,” Dillingham said.
A significant storyline for Utah (4-1, 1-1) is the potential return of veteran quarterback Cam Rising, who has been sidelined for three games with a finger injury. Rising’s availability could shift the dynamics of the game. Known for his poise and experience, Rising brings a level of leadership that makes it difficult to rattle him. Dillingham acknowledged this, saying, “You’re probably not going to pressure and rattle Cam Rising. He’s seen all the pressures.”
Rising’s replacement, Isaac Wilson, has had an up-and-down season, throwing for 830 yards, six touchdowns, and seven interceptions over five games. In Utah’s last outing, Wilson struggled against Arizona, completing just 20 of 40 passes with two interceptions. The uncertainty surrounding Rising’s status has made it tough for opponents to game plan, but should he return tonight, Arizona State’s defense will face a tougher challenge.
Arizona State will also need to prepare for Utah’s potent rushing attack, which has been a cornerstone of their offense. Dillingham emphasized that Utah’s ground game controls the tempo and sets up their passing opportunities, making it crucial for ASU to win the battle in the trenches.
As the Sun Devils look to upset the Utes, this game is about more than just a win or loss—it’s a measuring stick for Dillingham’s program. While the Sun Devils were blown out 55-3 by Utah last season, tonight offers a chance to show how much they’ve grown. A victory over a ranked opponent like Utah could mark a turning point for Arizona State, but it will require toughness, discipline, and resilience.
Whether or not Cam Rising suits up, Arizona State knows they face a tough battle against a well-coached and physical Utah team. But as Dillingham aims to build a program modeled after Whittingham’s, tonight could be a defining moment for the Sun Devils.