Netflix has unveiled a gripping new documentary, *Sun Devil Rising: The Kenny Dillingham Story*, spotlighting Arizona State University’s head football coach Kenny Dillingham and his extraordinary transformation of the Sun Devils from Big 12 underdogs to conference champions and College Football Playoff (CFP) contenders. Released on 10 July 2025, the documentary chronicles Dillingham’s two-season journey, taking a program projected to finish last in the 2024 Big 12 preseason poll to an 11–3 record, a Big 12 title, and a CFP quarterfinal berth. Fans on X are buzzing, with one post exclaiming, “Kenny Dillingham’s story on Netflix? From 3-9 to champs—pure Sun Devil magic!” This film captures the passion and vision of a 34-year-old coach redefining ASU’s football legacy.
Dillingham, an Arizona native and ASU alumnus, inherited a program in disarray after Herm Edwards’ tenure ended amid NCAA sanctions and a 3–9 record in 2022. In just his second season, Dillingham led the Sun Devils to a 45–19 rout of Iowa State in the 2024 Big 12 Championship, securing a first-round CFP bye and a Peach Bowl clash with Texas. The documentary, featuring interviews with Dillingham, players like Heisman fifth-place finisher Cam Skattebo, and staff, highlights his bold leadership and innovative strategies. *ESPN* noted his “magnetic” youth and ability to instill a “nobody believes in us” mentality, which resonated with a roster rebuilt through 46 scholarship newcomers, including quarterback Sam Leavitt, who threw for 2,663 yards and 24 touchdowns in 2024.
The film delves into Dillingham’s cultural overhaul, emphasizing his focus on recruiting players who fit his vision of competitiveness and positivity. Rejecting talent that didn’t align with ASU’s ethos, he brought in leaders like linebackers Zyrus Fiaseu and Keyshaun Elliott, transforming a team with 60 newcomers—the ninth-most in FBS—into a cohesive unit. *The Athletic* praised his AI-generated victory songs and team-bonding antics, like paintball outings, which fostered unity. The documentary also showcases his strategic acumen, from a daring 4th-and-1 call against Iowa State to clock management inspired by Bill Belichick, earning him Big 12 Coach of the Year and over $2.5 million in bonuses, part of which he shared with support staff.
Skepticism surrounds some claims, as the documentary’s release date lacks official confirmation from Netflix’s primary channels, suggesting it may tie into their broader 2025 Big 12 docuseries. However, Dillingham’s impact is undeniable: his new five-year contract, approved in January 2025, elevates his base salary from $4.05 million to $5.8 million, with incentives potentially extending to 2034, signaling ASU’s commitment to his vision. The film contrasts ASU’s “flashes of brilliance” history—Rose Bowl runs in 1987 and 1997—with Dillingham’s ambition to build a Clemson-like dynasty, as he told *The Athletic*, “Can we be that team that stamps itself in this era?”
*Sun Devil Rising* is more than a sports story—it’s a testament to Dillingham’s dream to elevate his alma mater, rooted in his Scottsdale upbringing and Chaparral High School coaching roots. With 16 returning starters, including Leavitt and receiver Jordyn Tyson (1,101 yards, 10 touchdowns), ASU is poised for a 2025 Big Ten title push. Fans, inspired by Dillingham’s rejection of a rumored $250 million offer from Penn State and Notre Dame, see him as the heart of Tempe’s revival. As one X post put it, “Kenny Dillingham’s turned ASU into a powerhouse—Netflix got it right!” Grab your popcorn—this documentary captures a coach, a team, and a city united in a historic ascent.
