Why Kenny Dillingham is giving the Sun Devils a full week off

Kenny Dillingham awards his The Arizona State Sun Devils are in dire need of a break after beating the Iowa State Cyclones 24-19 on Saturday.

Entering the match, Arizona State was 5-3. They needed one more win to secure bowl eligibility, which they accomplished twice in the 2020s (2021 and 2024). Last season marked the team’s best campaign in the modern era, reaching the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoff.

Luckily for the Sun Devils, they got the job done after knocking off the Cyclones on the road. Dillingham reflected on the victory after the game, according to reporter Gabriela Chernoff. He noted how emotional the season has been for the entire team, wanting to take a long break in the final week before preparing for the next match.

“It’s been an emotional season physically, mentally. These guys have to step up and come back ready for a three-game stretch where we can accomplish anything we want,” Dillingham said.

Kenny Dillingham gives his team a week off after beating Iowa.

“It’s been an emotional season physically, mentally. These guys have to step up and come back ready for a three-game stretch where we can accomplish anything we want.” pic.twitter.com/KbIO6kIvUV

— Gabriella Chernoff (@GabbiJChernoff) November 1, 2025

How Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham performed against Iowa State

It’s a great decision for Kenny Dillingham for Arizona State as they look to finish the regular season strong after earning a bowl berth.

The match saw the Sun Devils and Cyclones trade blows throughout the day. Arizona State led just 17-16 at halftime as they scored just one more touchdown to give them all the distance they needed to win the contest.

Jeff Sims dominated Iowa State’s defense, not with his passing, but with his play. He completed 13 of 24 passes for 177 yards and a touchdown and an interception. In the running game, he attempted 29 of the team’s 46 rushes for 228 yards and two touchdowns, leading his team to victory.

Raleek Brown had a solid offensive display, having 16 rushes for 64 yards while catching two passes for eight yards. Chamon Metayer led the receiving unit with six receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown. Jalen Moss was next with three catches for 52 yards, while Malik McClain caught two passes for 49 yards.

The Sun Devils will be looking forward to their next match, as it will be at home. They are off next week, but will resume play when they host the West Virginia Mountaineers on Nov. 15.