Emotional Sun Devils: No question we belong

Kenny Dillingham emphasized the value of the experience, stating, 'I think a lot of people were questioning that, and I don't think any person questions if we belonged on the field.' His acknowledgment of the players' talent and determination showcased their journey from being underdogs to competing at the highest level. The emotions after the heartbreaking defeat were palpable, reflecting the investment and commitment from the entire team as they came together to confront the odds and showcase their capabilities against formidable opponents.

Sam Leavitt captured the essence of their effort by saying, 'We gave everything we had.' This statement underscores the team's resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity. The Sun Devils not only surpassed expectations but also showed their character in their comeback attempts, consolidating their place as true contenders. The emotion of the game displayed how much they fought not just for a victory, but for each other, leaving everything on the field against Texas.

Despite the loss, Dillingham highlighted the remarkable progress made, noting 'the Sun Devils, predicted to finish last in the Big 12, achieved a remarkable turnaround from 3-9 to 11-3.' This transition illustrates not just their athletic capabilities but also the strategic mentorship provided under Dillingham's leadership. The resilience of the program sets the groundwork for future successes, indicating their potential as a rising power within college football.

The statistics from the game reveal the hard-fought battle, with Arizona State outgaining Texas 510-375 in total offense and controlling nearly two-thirds of the game. This performance reflected their ability to sustain drives and put pressure on their opponent. Their capability to recover from a 16-point deficit in the final minutes showcased immense determination and is a testament to the growth they experienced throughout the season.

Read at ESPN.com