Arizona State Unveils ‘Golden Ticket’ Campaign to Lure Top 2027 Recruits

The six recruits who received golden tickets are four-star OT Jake Hildebrand, three-star ATH Jai Jones, three-star OT Ben Lowther, four-star RB Noah Roberts, three-star QB Kael Snyder, and four-star WR Zerek Sidney.

According to Dillingham, June 15 marked the first day coaches could officially contact 2027 prospects, and ASU seized the moment by sending out symbolic Golden Tickets to their top prospects.

“It’s going to be special to come here again,” Dillingham said. “‘Wow, I’m one of the few people who get the opportunity to stay in‑state.’ That’s what we’re trying to create.”

Instead of generic offers, Golden Tickets spotlight six recruits, making them feel celebrated and prioritized. Dillingham’s goal is to position Arizona State as the top in-state brand for both players and their families.

Arizona State’s Golden Ticket rollout is more than a gimmick — it’s a strategic gamble aimed at flipping the in-state recruiting script. With six elite prospects already receiving the invite, ASU is sending a vivid message: local talent matters here.

If this translates to commitments, Dillingham’s innovation could reshape future recruiting norms, both in Arizona and across the conference.