Success starts in the trenches, and the Sun Devils' turnaround along the offensive line was a major factor in their success in 2024. With four starters back for 2025, the line looks to once again be a team strength.

But not everyone will be back in their old spots, as Ben Coleman will be sliding over from left guard to center to replace All-Big 12 selection Leif Fautanu. After missing his first year in Tempe due to injury, Ben returned to the lineup last year and put together a standout season. No matter where he lines up this fall, Ben will be a key player on the field and an important leader off of it.

On this episode, Ben and I discuss the keys to ASU's success, why he bypassed the NFL Draft for another year in Tempe, his evolving leadership role, activating the Valley, young OLmen to watch, the best breakfast spots in Tempe, and more.

It's almost time to play ball. We dive into a preview of Arizona State's baseball team ahead of a crucial 2025 season. We also talk with DevilsDigest.com publisher Hod Rabino (1:11:30) on the rapidly warming seat for Bobby Hurley. Plus, we talk with 2026 blue-chip tight end commit Israel Briggs (11:59) and new ASU running back Grayson Rigdon (24:28).

It was only appropriate that ASU's victory in the Big 12 championship game took place in Texas, as the Texas-to-Tempe movement has been such a critical factor in the Sun Devils' turnaround. One of the first players that arrive through that movement has developed into one of the key pieces of Arizona State's success.

Defensive tackle C.J. Fite once committed to ASU under the prior staff, decommitted after the coaching change, but then recommitted once he saw the vision Kenny Dillingham planned to bring. In his second year, Fite blossomed into an All-Big 12 selection and a member of the Pat Tillman Leadership Council. Now an upperclassmen, bigger things are ahead.

On this episode, we discuss his growth as a leader, winning the title in his home state, how the team can keep its edge, the most fashionable Sun Devil, and much more.

ASU head coach Kenny Dillingham spoke with the media on Feb. 7 to discuss a number of topics, including the team's culture, the success in recruiting, leadership, team culture, Sam Leavitt's development, facilities, RBs, Sparky, grocery store photos, and much more.

After a breakdown of the newest Sun Devil commits, we dive into an analysis of ASU's 2025 football schedule. Then we rate the team's position groups by how much confidence we have in them heading into spring practices. Finally, we talk with new Arizona State wide receiver Jaren Hamilton (52:27).

Sure, the 2024 Sun Devils had talented players. But what truly elevated the team was their heart. Their grit. Their ability to overcome adversity. Much of that stemmed from the team's leadership, and among the most impactful voices in that locker room was Xavion Alford.

You likely know his story by now. After coming to ASU as a transfer, he and Jake Smith were unjustly ruled ineligible by the NCAA for the 2023 season. But he kept a positive attitude, and when he finally took the field last year, he put together a terrific season that earned him first-team All-Big 12 honors. Bypassing the NFL Draft, Xavion is back and ready to lead the Devils on another title run.

On this episode, we discuss the impact and evolution of his leadership, how he won't let the team get complacent, the team's young DBs, his go to Mexican food spots, and much more.

Great seasons never go exactly as planned. In fact, most have significant obstacles, like a key injury. But what makes those seasons great is someone steps up to answer the call, and the 2024 Sun Devils had Xavier Guillory.

After the loss of Jordyn Tyson, Guillory put together a scorching finish to the year, scoring four huge touchdowns in critical ASU victories. He also continued to put in the hard work as a blocker, and he helped spring numerous big plays for the Sun Devil ground game during the magical season.

On this episode, we discuss his clutch contributions and catches, working with Hines Ward, the lessons from his ASU career, his prep for the NFL, next year's batch of receivers, and much more.

Trenton Bourguet saw a lot during his time in Tempe. A promising rise, the COVID year, a disappointing season, a NCAA scandal, a coaching change, and finally and deservedly, a title-winning playoff run.

Through it all, he displayed dedication, loyalty, heart, leadership, and a deft passing touch that made him—a Marana native and childhood Wildcat fan—one of the most popular Sun Devils in recent memory. With the close of his playing days, the football prodigy is now embarking upon a very promising coaching career.

On this episode we discuss the ups and downs of his six years as a Sun Devil, what made the 2024 team special, his favorite moments, a breakdown of his offensive scheme, and much more.

To have a magical season, you need stars doing special things, and Arizona State had Cam Skattebo rewriting the record books. But a team also needs the unsung heroes, the guys that do the dirty work that doesn't often show up in the box scores. Guys who are true leaders. Guys that make the big play in the big moments.

Melquan Stovall was one of those guys for the Sun Devils. Over his two years, the wide receiver became a sure-handed target and a critical part of ASU's turnaround. He also earned not one but two master's degrees off the field. Not too shabby.

On this episode, we discuss his role in ASU's resurgence, his growth as a leader, that targeting non-call, his CIA aspirations, the future of the Sun Devil offense, and more.

A magical season resulted in some award-worthy performances. After a look at the latest portal additions, we dive into our annual Sun Devil season awards, honoring the best of ASU's title-winning 2024 season.