Kenny Dillingham Admits Late Clock Management vs. BYU Was ‘100% a Mistake’
Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham isn’t one to hide from criticism — and after a controversial finish against BYU, he’s owning up to what many fans already believed: the late-game clock management was a costly error.
Speaking to reporters in a candid post-game press conference, Dillingham said, “It was 100% a mistake. I take full responsibility. That’s on me.” The admission comes after ASU failed to stop the clock or use timeouts strategically during a critical fourth-quarter drive, allowing BYU to run out the clock and escape with a narrow victory.
The Sun Devils, who had clawed back from a 10-point deficit, had momentum late in the game. Quarterback Jaden Rashada had just completed a crucial third-down conversion, but instead of calling a timeout with under a minute to go, the team appeared disorganized. The clock continued to tick, and by the time ASU lined up for their final play, only seconds remained.
Fans and analysts alike immediately questioned the decision-making, especially given the game’s high stakes and ASU’s comeback effort. Dillingham’s transparency, though, has been widely praised.
“Being a young head coach means learning through experience,” said one Pac-12 analyst. “Owning that mistake publicly shows leadership and growth.”
Still, the loss stings. Arizona State drops to 3–2 on the season, and the BYU defeat could have bowl game implications later in the year. Dillingham has vowed to clean up communication and sideline coordination moving forward.
For now, the Sun Devils must regroup — and learn — from a missed opportunity. But in the eyes of many, Dillingham’s honesty may prove just as valuable as 
