Arizona State Football Extends Contracts of Coordinators Arroyo and Ward

Arizona State University (ASU) has announced new three-year contract extensions for their offensive and defensive coordinators, Marcus Arroyo and Brian Ward, respectively. As reported by ESPN, the contracts were finalized this week and are significant financial commitments from the university, paying each coordinator an average exceeding $1 million annually.

This decision marks a pivotal commitment to maintaining continuity and building on the current successes of the ASU football program, which is currently 8-2 under the leadership of second-year head coach Kenny Dillingham. Last season, ASU finished 3-9, but this year’s performance has seen a remarkable turnaround, earning the Sun Devils a bowl-eligible status for the first time since 2021.

The offensive improvements led by Arroyo, a former head coach at UNLV, have been significant. The Sun Devils’ offense jumped to an average of 30.8 points per game, improved from 17.8 last year, and the national rank improved from 121st to 43rd. Under Arroyo’s guidance, quarterback Sam Leavitt has become a standout performer, throwing for 1,906 yards and 19 touchdowns, and running back Cam Skattebo has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards.

On the defensive side, Ward’s influence has been equally impactful. The defense is now allowing 22.8 points per game, a reduction from 31.8 points last year, resulting in a national ranking improvement from 107th to 53rd. This defensive efficiency was crucial in ASU’s successful stretch of winning five out of six recent games.

Head coach Kenny Dillingham commended the efforts of both his coordinators and emphasized the importance of staff stability in achieving the team’s goals. «We truly have good people in the building,» Dillingham stated in an interview with Arizona Sports. «There’s just a connection that’s stronger than transactional.»

The extensions come as ASU, ranked No. 21, prepares to face No. 14 BYU this Saturday, with aspirations to compete for the Big 12 championship. The proactive strategy of retaining Rico and enhancing the coaching team is partially attributed to new Athletic Director Graham Rossini’s efforts since taking the position in May.