Did Arizona State Find a Hidden Gem in the Transfer Portal?
Arizona State University made it to the College Football Playoff last season and returns 18 starters, giving them a strong foundation heading into this year. With a few key transfer portal additions, the Sun Devils look poised to be just as formidable as they were in 2023. 
While the cornerback group remains unchanged from last season, head coach Kenny Dillingham may have struck gold with the addition of Nyland Green, a transfer cornerback from Purdue.
Green Named a Sleeper by ESPN
Bill Connelly of ESPN has labeled Green as a sleeper who could provide a much-needed spark in the secondary, potentially playing a crucial role as a nickel back and helping lead the defense to success.
Green had limited playing time at Purdue but still posted 23 tackles, two tackles for loss, and five pass breakups. Prior to Purdue, he spent three seasons at Georgia with minimal game action.
His addition will strengthen the Sun Devils’ defensive backfield, especially after they ranked 81st in pass defense across the FBS last season. Green’s presence could be the catalyst the defense needs to elevate their play.
Sun Devils Poised for Another Big 12 Title Run
In their first season in the Big 12, Arizona State was picked to finish last by media members. However, with key players like quarterback Sam Leavitt, running back Cam Skatteo, and wide receiver Jordyn Tyson leading the way, the Sun Devils defied the odds and emerged as the Big 12 Championship victors.
Dillingham returns for another season as head coach and has the Sun Devils exactly where he wants them — now a target for the rest of the conference. The team will be the hunted as other Big 12 schools aim to knock them off their perch.
Dillingham’s Rapid Rise
Dillingham, who has earned a spot on the prestigious Dodd Trophy watchlist for the best coach in college football, has quickly built a reputation as a rising star. After starting his coaching career as an offensive analyst at Arizona State, he took stops at Memphis, Auburn, Florida State, and Oregon. In just his first year as head coach of the Sun Devils, he turned the program into a national contender.
In just two years, Dillingham has created a winning culture at Arizona State, fostering a sense of unity among his players and a chip on their shoulder as they continue to defy expectations.
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