Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham addressed his team's 27-20 loss to No. 8 BYU following their Week 9 matchup in Utah. Despite the defeat, Dillingham noted that the Sun Devils displayed passion and physicality throughout the game.
Dillingham expressed satisfaction with the team's energy, stating the program showed it is not going to quit. He noted that while the team struggled for three weeks, they appeared to find their rhythm during the last two weeks of play. The coach also praised the atmosphere created by the BYU fans and student body, noting they were practicing chants two hours before kickoff.
Regarding freshman quarterback Jake Fette's first collegiate start, Dillingham said the coaching staff simplified the offense in the second half to assist the young player. He noted that the team utilized two-by-two formations for approximately 50% of the snaps in the second half to ensure Fette had a clear plan and fewer pictures to process.
Dillingham also commented on a controversial first touchdown by BYU involving a double review of a fumble. He argued that based on the rules regarding clear and imminent advancement after a whistle, the ball should have been placed on the three-yard line. He clarified that he was not yelling at the officials, as they are merely messengers for the rules established elsewhere.
Looking toward the future, Dillingham stated he is not concerned about the program's direction due to the talent of the young players and the current momentum of the signing class. He expressed pain that his team did not secure the win but remained optimistic about the program's bright future.
