Football History

The Arizona State Sun Devils boast a rich football history characterized by both triumph and adversity. Emerging from the arid landscape of the Southwest, the program has cultivated a distinctive identity rooted in resilience and determination. The Sun Devils' journey began in the early years of college football, and through the decades, the program has evolved into a formidable force in the Pac-12.

ASU’s gridiron traditions are as iconic as the desert sun. The pitchfork, a symbol of both the state and the team, has become synonymous with Sun Devil pride.

The passionate fan base, known for its unwavering support, creates an electrifying atmosphere at Sun Devil Stadium. The program has produced numerous standout players who have left their mark on both college and professional football. While challenges have been faced, the Sun Devils have consistently demonstrated a spirit of perseverance, making them a beloved and respected institution in the world of college football.  

From their humble beginnings to their current status as a Pac-12 contender, the Arizona State Sun Devils have carved a unique niche in the landscape of college football.

Near Tempe, Arizona, is the successful football program of Arizona State University. The team has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. ASU has an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title and sometimes even the post-season bowl games.

On the following pages, we will cover aspects of the team, which may include the Program's Origin, the Biggest Games in School History, the Program's Top Players, the Most Significant Coaches, the Program's Logo and Mascot History, the team's Helmet Designs Over Time, and so much more.

Move forward into the school's Gridiron history on this page!

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The Arizona State University Sun Devils football program boasts a rich history, spanning over a century of competition. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a Pac-12 contender, the program has seen periods of both triumph and adversity, carving its own unique path in college football lore.

Early Years and Establishing a Foundation (1897-1957):

The program's origins can be traced back to 1897, when the Tempe Normal School (predecessor to ASU) fielded its first team.
These early years were characterized by limited resources and competition against regional opponents.
Despite the challenges, notable figures like coach Frank Kush laid the groundwork for future success.
The Frank Kush Era and National Recognition (1958-1979):

This era marks the golden age of ASU football. Under the leadership of legendary coach Frank Kush, the Sun Devils transformed into a national powerhouse.
Kush's innovative coaching style and emphasis on discipline led to 14 conference titles and three Top-10 finishes in the AP Poll.
The Sun Devils defeated ranked opponents like Ohio State and Nebraska, achieving national recognition and establishing their place among college football's elite.
Darryl Rogers Era and Transition (1980-1984):

The departure of Frank Kush ushered in a period of transition. While the program continued to win conference titles under coach Darryl Rogers, it struggled to maintain its national standing.
This era saw the introduction of Sparky the Sun Devil as the official mascot, further solidifying the program's identity.
The John Cooper Era and Renewed Success (1985-1987):

Coach John Cooper's arrival in 1985 marked another period of success. The Sun Devils won two conference titles and earned national recognition with victories over ranked opponents like Oklahoma.
This era also saw the emergence of iconic players like Jake Plummer and Pat Tillman, further cementing the program's legacy.
Joining the Pac-10 and Facing New Challenges (1988-Present):

The Sun Devils' move to the Pac-10 Conference in 1978 presented new challenges and opportunities.
While competing against established programs like USC and UCLA, the Sun Devils continued to achieve success, winning conference titles and making bowl appearances.
The program faced periods of inconsistency and coaching changes but remained competitive within the Pac-10, later renamed the Pac-12.
Recent Developments and the Future (2019-Present):

The Sun Devils' recent history has been marked by leadership transitions and an ongoing pursuit of consistency.
The program has shown promising signs under coach Kenny Dillingham, including an exciting victory over Oklahoma State in 2023.
As the Sun Devils continue to navigate the competitive Pac-12 landscape and move to the Big 12 in 2024, they remain committed to achieving sustained success and building upon their legacy.

The "best season" for Arizona State Sun Devils Football is a subjective question with no definitive answer. It depends heavily on what criteria you prioritize, such as:
Record: The Sun Devils have achieved several impressive records throughout their history. Their best record by winning percentage is 12-0 in 1975, while their highest win total is 13 in 1971 and 1972.
Conference championships: Arizona State has won 17 conference championships across different conferences, including the Border Conference, Western Athletic Conference, and Pac-12 Conference. Their most recent championship came in 2013 in the Pac-12 South.
Bowl appearances and wins: The Sun Devils have appeared in 24 bowl games, winning 15. Their most recent bowl win came in the 2021 Las Vegas Bowl.
National rankings: Arizona State has been ranked in the final AP Top 25 poll on 14 occasions. Their highest ranking was No. 2 in both 1975 and 1996.

Here are some arguments for different seasons as the Sun Devils' best:

1975:

Undefeated record of 12-0
Won the Western Athletic Conference championship
Ranked No. 2 in the final AP Poll
Defeated Nebraska in the Fiesta Bowl
1996:

Record of 11-1
Won the Pac-10 Conference championship
Ranked No. 2 in the final AP Poll
Lost to Ohio State in the Rose Bowl

For more on the 1996 season check out the linked article

The Arizona State Sun Devils' helmet designs have undergone an evolution throughout their history, reflecting changes in the program's identity and aesthetic preferences.

Here's a brief overview:

-Early Years (1951-1971):

The Sun Devils initially wore simple gold helmets with a white "ASU" decal on the side.

Variations included a maroon stripe down the center of the helmet and a white "Sun Devils" decal.

These early designs were primarily focused on school colors and lacked any mascots or logos.

Sparky's Introduction and Experimentation (1972-2004):
The iconic Sparky the Sun Devil mascot was introduced on the helmet in 1972, initially as a small decal on the back.

Throughout the years, Sparky's size and position on the helmet varied, including full-face designs, profile versions, and Sparky holding footballs.

The program experimented with various colors, including maroon stripes, black facemasks, and even an all-chrome design in 1980.

-Stability and Refinement (2005-Present):

In 2005, the Sun Devils adopted a more consistent approach, settling on the classic gold helmet with a larger, full-face Sparky decal on the side.

The maroon facemask became a permanent fixture, and variations have included chrome accents, alternate Sparky logos, and special edition designs for specific games.

This consistent design has fostered a stronger visual identity for the program and has become instantly recognizable with ASU football.

-Recent Innovations and Future Possibilities (2019-Present):

In 2019, the program introduced a "color-shifting" maroon helmet, adding a new dimension to their helmet designs.

The Sun Devils experimented with a white helmet featuring Sparky's face in 2023, marking the first time Sparky appeared on a non-gold helmet.

These recent innovations suggest the program is open to exploring new design possibilities while maintaining the core elements of its identity.

For more on ASU helmets through the years, check out the images collected on Helmet History.com.

The rivalry between the Arizona Wildcats and Arizona State Sun Devils, known as the "Duel in the Desert," is one of the most intense and historic in college football. Since 1899, these two teams have battled for bragging rights and the coveted Territorial Cup, creating a legacy of unforgettable moments. Here are some of the top highlights:
1. Arizona's 34-31 Upset in 1982:
This game marked a turning point in the rivalry as the underdog Wildcats stunned the heavily favored Sun Devils.
Chuck Cecil's 106-yard interception return for a touchdown became an iconic moment, solidifying the upset victory.
This win helped establish Arizona as a legitimate contender and ignited the rivalry to new heights.
2. Arizona's 56-35 Victory Without Attempting a Pass in the Second Half (2016):
This unorthodox yet dominant victory showcased Arizona's powerful running game and strategic brilliance.
The Wildcats relied solely on the ground in the second half, showcasing their control and determination.
This unique victory cemented its place as one of the most remarkable moments in the rivalry's history.
3. Willie Tuitama's Game-Winning Drive in 1995:
In a tense matchup, Arizona quarterback Willie Tuitama led a heroic comeback drive in the final minutes.
He orchestrated a thrilling touchdown pass with just seconds remaining, sealing the victory for the Wildcats.
This clutch performance solidified Tuitama's legacy as a legendary Arizona quarterback and further intensified the rivalry.
4. The "Fifth Down Game" (1978):
This controversial game is shrouded in debate, with the final score disputed due to a potential officiating error.
Despite the controversy, the game remains a significant moment in the rivalry due to its intensity and lasting impact.
The "Fifth Down Game" continues to be a topic of discussion and debate among fans of both teams.
5. The "Punt Bowl" (2005):
This game witnessed an unusual occurrence, with both teams punting the ball a combined 22 times in the first half.
Despite the low-scoring affair, the second half provided thrilling moments, including a final-minute touchdown by Arizona State.
The "Punt Bowl" exemplifies the unpredictable nature of the rivalry and its ability to produce unexpected outcomes.
Bonus Moment: The Territorial Cup Trophy:
The coveted Territorial Cup itself is a symbol of the rivalry's significance and the intense competition between the two teams.
The trophy, first awarded in 1988, has become a treasured possession and a source of immense pride for the winning team.
These moments merely scratch the surface of the rich history and memorable clashes that have defined the Arizona-ASU Territorial Cup. Each game carries a unique energy and the potential for unexpected moments that further solidify the rivalry's legacy. As these two teams continue to battle for supremacy, the "Duel in the Desert" promises to create even more unforgettable moments in the years to come.
For more on this rivalry and the Territorial Cup check out the linked YouTube video.

The Arizona State Sun Devils and the Arizona Wildcats football rivalry, known as the "Duel in the Desert," is one of the oldest and most intense in college football. Dating back to 1899, the rivalry transcends the gridiron, reflecting the political and cultural differences between the two universities and the state of Arizona.
Early Years and Political Tensions (1899-1950s):
The rivalry began early, with the first game played just two years after Arizona State's founding. The games were often fiercely competitive, mirroring the growing political tensions between the University of Arizona, established in 1885, and the newly formed Arizona State College.
The Territorial Cup and Shifting Landscapes (1950s-2000s):
The "Territorial Cup" was introduced in 1988, adding another layer of significance to the rivalry. The trophy, awarded to the winner of the annual game, symbolized the ongoing battle for bragging rights within the state. The late 1950s saw a particularly heated period, fueled by Arizona State's rise to university status, a move opposed by the University of Arizona.
Modern Era and Renewed Intensity (2000s-Present):
The rivalry has continued to be a highlight of the college football season in recent years. Both teams have experienced periods of success, contributing to dramatic and unpredictable matchups. The rise of social media has added a new dimension to the rivalry, allowing fans to engage in passionate online discussions and banter.
Beyond the Game: A Shared Legacy and Community Spirit:
Despite the intense competition, the rivalry is also rooted in mutual respect and a shared history. Both universities contribute to the vibrant educational and cultural landscape of Arizona, and the "Duel in the Desert" serves as a unifying event for the state's football fans.