Arizona State’s Dillingham linked to online Penn State coaching searches

The speculation comes at an interesting time for Arizona State.

Dillingham, 35, accomplished what few have. In his second year with the Sun Devils in 2024, he led the team to a Big 12 championship and helped rejuvenate a fan base eager for improvement after several disappointing seasons.

With his energy, innovation, leadership and honesty (what he’s primarily known for), Dillingham has become a fan favorite in the Valley. Losing him would hit home for fans who bought into his vision and saw it produce results.

ASU has spent the past several years searching for consistency after going through multiple coaches who didn’t work out. Dillingham’s Arizona roots and authenticity have helped the program flourish.

As the defending Big 12 Champions, all eyes are on the Sun Devils as they continue to build on that success. Dillingham is essentially the face of this new era of ASU Football, and losing him would be a blow to the momentum the team has been slowly building since his arrival.

However, Penn State has the resources, stature and urgency to make Dillingham a strong offer as it looks to begin its own new era. As of now, these are just speculations and online chat.

While it’s uncertain if Penn State will contact the Sun Devils head coach for the position, it’s clear Dillingham’s vision and execution haven’t been forgotten. His name surfacing in these conversations shows his value as a head coach to a program that needed a lift.

Putting rumors to the side, the Sun Devils look to their next challenge as they face No. 7 Texas Tech on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 1 p.m.