Episode 463 - Tense Times in Tempe: Should the Sun Devils be Worried?

As the world slows down for the holidays, the rumor mill is speeding up. Could Kenny Dillingham really leave Arizona State to coach the Michigan Wolverines? We discuss and outline what ASU's homegrown coach may actually be saying and what he's purposefully not. We also talk with two talented young Sun Devil defenders, linebacker Martell Hughes (24:56) and cornerback Joseph Smith (28:45).

2025 was my 15th season covering Arizona State football. Over that span, there are few—if any—players that I've covered more impactful, on and off the field, than Xavion Alford. Despite being ruled ineligible by the NCAA in 2023 after his transfer, he was a key part in establishing ASU's culture. He then took the field last year and was an All-Big 12 first team performer. Although an injury kept him sidelined for most of this past year, he still contributed in an off field role and recently declared for the NFL Draft. On this episode, we discuss his decision, his career at ASU, how his time as a Sun Devil shaped him, and more.  

As the Sun Devils continue to prepare for the Sun Bowl, the news cycles forges on. We tackle the latest from ASU's transfer portal announcements and then discuss what merit—if any—the Michigan coaching rumors surrounding Kenny Dillingham hold.

The Sun Devils are El Paso bound. We breakdown the news of ASU's Sun Bowl matchup against Duke, get the latest from the recruiting trail and transfer portal, and talk with Sun Devil defensive tackle Jacob Kongaika (1:01:41), wide receiver Malik McClain (1:05:54), and new cornerback signee Jalen Williams (25:51).

There is no offseason, folks. Joined by guest co-host Ralph Amsden, we discuss ASU's disappointing loss to Arizona and its implications before diving into National Signing Day. We break down the Sun Devils' 2026 class so far, including the crown jewels and diamonds-in-the-rough. We also get insight from DevilsDigest.com publisher Hod Rabino (1:52:02), and we talk to a pair of new Sun Devils: Quarterback Jake Fette (15:30) and defensive end Kirtland Vakalahi (46:08). Brad and Joe will have an update on Friday when the early signing period closes. [NOTE: Since recording, WR Cooper Reid flipped his commitment to TCU]

It's time for the Duel. Before the Sun Devils and Wildcats battle it out, we discuss the latest injury news, identify the key ASU players who need to step up, and in the spirit of the holiday, share what Sun Devil things we're thankful for this season. Plus, hear from Arizona State wide receiver coach Hines Ward.

It all comes down to this. After a look back at the win over Colorado, we turn our attention to the 98th battle for the Territorial Cup. We go behind Arizona lines with Adam Green of Wildcat Radio 2.0 (23:40) before diving into our in-depth game preview and unveil our predictions. We then talk with ASU tight end Chamon Metayer (1:29:49) and defensive end Justin Wodtly (1:35:03).

Arizona State is rolling, but is a trap awaiting in Boulder? We discuss the impact of the latest injury news, identify key Sun Devils who must step up, and revisit our predictions from our main show. Plus, we have a great chat with ASU offensive line coach Saga Tuitele.

A win is a win, as the Sun Devils rallied back to stay in the Big 12 race. We open with a look at the latest news, including the reports that Sam Leavitt is looking to transfer. Then we dive into a look back at ASU's win over West Virginia and what we can take from it. We then go behind Colorado lines with Buffaloes insider Brian Howell of Buffzone and the Boulder Daily Camera (45:54) before launching into our game preview and predictions. We then cap the show with great talks with ASU wide receiver Jalen Moss (1:40:28) and linebacker Keyshaun Elliott (1:45:33).

Arizona State is set for a key Homecoming battle against West Virginia. On this week's Untimed Down, Brad Denny and Joe Healey each highlight three Sun Devils who will play key roles in deciding Saturday's outcome. Plus, hear from ASU safety Myles "Ghost" Rowser. Get our FULL ASU vs. West Virginia Preview here