Tearful Dillingham’s Heartbreak: “I Didn’t Do Enough” After Devastating Peach Bowl Defeat

ATLANTA — The Arizona State University Sun Devils were defeated by the Texas Longhorns in a thrilling double overtime matchup at the Peach Bowl, final score 39-31. The game, part of the Quarter-Final College Football Playoff, kept fans engaged until the very end.

After trailing 17-3 at halftime, the Sun Devils rallied in the fourth quarter, tying the score at 24-24 in the final minute. A missed field goal sent both teams into overtime.

In the first overtime, ASU scored first with a touchdown, only to see Texas respond with a touchdown and a field goal, leveling the score again at 31-31. The Longhorns pushed ahead in the second overtime with another touchdown and a two-point conversion, sealing their victory.

Following the game, head coach Kenny Dillingham expressed disappointment yet acknowledged the team’s remarkable journey. “I hate to lose more than anybody, but now that it’s over, we’re looking to reflect,” Dillingham said. “Where these guys have come is an incredible testament to the team.”

During the post-game conference, Dillingham was joined by quarterback Sam Leavitt and running back Cam Skattebo. He noted the initial struggle in the game and recognized Texas’s defensive efforts but took responsibility for not positioning his players to succeed. “Our guys deserve to win a football game,” he admitted. “I’m going to reflect on it and I’m going to look at how I can be better.”

The atmosphere in the locker room post-game was somber. “It should be. If it wasn’t, something would be wrong,” said Dillingham.

Despite the loss, he praised the season, calling it incredible. Skattebo and Leavitt were highlighted for their leadership and contributions, reflecting on the bond they forged as teammates. “It’s just going to hurt me to not be with [Skattebo] next year,” Leavitt stated, clearly emotional, emphasizing the special nature of this season.

Skattebo echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on the team’s resilience. “We fought through everything all season,” he insisted. “You saw in that game; we never stopped.” Remarkably, he was named Peach Bowl MVP, a unique honor for a player on the losing team, the first such recognition in 26 years.

The season for the Sun Devils may have concluded, but its impact and the memories created will resonate beyond the final whistle.