Kenny Dillingham at Big 12 Media Days 2024: Top 5 questions we want Sun Devils HC to answer

After a 3-9 season, Kenny Dillingham and Arizona State aren't particularly strong heading into 2024. Plus, the Sun Devils made the move to the Big 12.

The Sun Devils will likely have a challenging season, and the new league guarantees a difficult road slate for ASU. So what can Dillingham tell the world at Big 12 Media Days on Tuesday and Wednesday? Here are five questions we'd like to hear answered.

Top 5 questions for Kenny Dillingham at Big 12 media days 2024

Arizona State's QB situation is up in the air with the transfer of Jaden Rashada. (Photo Credit: Arizona Republic)

#1, Who's the QB?

With the loss of talented freshman Jaden Rashada, ASU has an uncertain QB situation. Trenton Bourguet is the top returnee, but he threw just one touchdown in 248 passes last year. Michigan State transfer Sam Leavitt and Georgia Tech/Nebraska exile Jeff Sims are very much in play. But the identity of the quarterback will tell much of the tale of the identity of the ASU offense.

#2, Can new coordinator Marcus Arroyo fix the offense?

Former UNLV head coach Marcus Arroyo is the new offensive coordinator under Dillingham, and he has his work cut out for him.

A year ago, ASU scored just 17.8 points per game and averaged 322 yards per game while pushing a minus-11 turnover margin. Running back Cam Skattebo is probably part of the solution after averaging 4.8 yards per carry while racking up 788 yards and nine scores last season.

The Sun Devils have a veteran offensive line, likely with three senior starters. Skattebo is the top returning receiver, so there's work to do there. A year ago, ASU only topped 28 points once. They have to do more this year.

#3, Can Brian Ward keep the defense moving forward?

Second-year coordinator Brian Ward's defense showed modest gains despite last year's rough finish. ASU held offenses to 397 yards per game, down 25 yards from the year before. They allowed 31.8 ppg, which is a bit high, and Ward has to find a lot of solutions as he returns only three starters from a year ago.

The Sun Devils have excellent safeties in returnee Shmari Simmons and Texas transfer Xavion Alford. If New Mexico State linebacker Keyshaun Elliot can play at a high level, ASU can improve again on this side of the ball.

#4, Will special teams be better?

Arizona State had to replace its kicker and punter a season ago and struggled in special teams. Kicker Dario Longhetto was okay (11-for-16 on field goals), but punter Josh Carlson averaged just 38.2 yards per punt. Elijah Badger made some plays as a kick returner, but he has transferred.

Ohio State transfer Parker Lewis should be an improvement at kicker, and freshman Kanyon Floyd could be a standout punter. The return game is something of a question mark, but there are plenty of talented athletes who could shine.

#5, How much progress should we expect?

After a pair of 3-9 seasons, it's fair to wonder how much better Arizona State can be under Dillingham in 2024. The road schedule is tough, with a winnable Thursday game at Texas State followed by trips to Texas Tech, Cincinnati, Oklahoma State, Kansas State and Arizona. A nonconference game with Mississippi State will be tough.

The home schedule probably determines ASU's situation. If the Sun Devils can beat Wyoming and Texas State out of conference and best teams like UCF and BYU at home, they could hit five or even six wins. If not, another 3-9 season is a distinct possibility.

What do you hope to learn from Kenny Dillingham at Big 12 Media Days? Weigh in below with your thoughts in our comments section!