Sun Devils’ head coach details optimism, challenges, and respect for Baylor ahead of Saturday’s clash
Arizona State enters its first Big 12 road test with no shortage of energy or questions. Kenny Dillingham stood at the podium this week with a mix of confidence and realism as he previewed Saturday’s trip to Waco. Facing a Baylor squad led by quarterback Sawyer Robertson and head coach Dave Aranda, Dillingham made it clear: his team’s focus and growth matter as much as any opponent.
The coach pointed to his team’s resilience as reason for optimism. “The passion they played with starting the second half… they came back the next week and they went straight back to work. There was no blinking, there was no flinching,” Dillingham said, highlighting how the Sun Devils continue to respond under pressure.
He also praised his defense’s playmakers, noting the high IQ of stars like Keith Abney II and Myles Rowser. Their instincts, he believes, will be critical against Baylor’s balanced attack.
When asked about Robertson, Dillingham didn’t hesitate. “He’s accurate. He’s tall, big… really good player. He’s had a lot of success the last two years there, so it’s going to be a good challenge for us.”
With kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. EDT in Waco, the Sun Devils will need that same relentless focus Dillingham sees in practice. The challenge is steep, but Arizona State’s coach believes his team is ready to keep building.
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