Arizona Coach Kenny Dillingham was thrilled Saturday to reaffirm his love for his alma mater, where he hopes to secure an extended contract, amid reports he is a top target for the job vacancy. Michigan.
Speaking to reporters after practice in Tempe, Dillingham said of Arizona State, “I love this place,” before holding back tears. Dillingham grew up near ASU's campus, attended school there and returned as the team's head coach at the end of 2022.
He said his agent and Arizona State are negotiating a renegotiated contract.
“They sent my agent at some point after the last game,” Dillingham said. “…I’m not really involved in this. This is kind of my team. I coach football.”
Dillingham was the subject of speculation about the Michigan job late Friday, in part because a number of Wolverines players and other school officials began following him on social media. Dillingham, 35, called Michigan “one of the best programs in the country, it has one of the best logos in the country.” Michigan fired coach Sherron Moore on Wednesday for violating university policy by engaging in an inappropriate relationship with an employee.
Dillingham said he has not spoken with Michigan about his work.
“It doesn’t change how I feel about this place,” Dillingham said of Arizona State. “It doesn’t change the fact that my sister is my neighbor. This doesn't change the fact that my parents live three doors down… [Michigan] “It’s one of the best jobs in America, it’s an incredible brand, it’s an iconic brand, so it’s a great opportunity for somebody.”
Dillingham led ASU to a Big 12 title and a College Football Playoff berth in 2024, the Sun Devils' first season in the conference. He is 22-16 in three seasons at ASU, which will face ACC champion Duke on Dec. 31 in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl. Dillingham has been mentioned as a candidate for other notable jobs in this year's coaching cycle, including LSU, but has repeatedly stated his commitment to Arizona State.
Other possible candidates for the Michigan job include Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer and Washington coach Jedd Fisch, a former Wolverine assistant under Jim Harbaugh.
