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The Arizona State Sun Devils have placed a self-imposed playoff ban for the 2023 season amid the ongoing NCAA investigations.
All of it started back in 2020 when Herm Edwards allegedly violated COVID regulations while recruiting student-athletes.
According to The Athletic, Arizona State left a statement claiming they won’t be “commenting further at this time.”
“In light of the ongoing investigation and our membership obligation to maintain the confidentiality of the matter, we will not be commenting further at this time.”
All of this stems back in 2020 when former head coach Herm Edwards allegedly hosted recruits, “during the 15-month, non-contact period brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic,” per The Athletic.
The Sun Devils fired Edwards early in his fifth season with the program. Shaun Aguano was named the interim coach to finish off that year. Eventually, Arizona State named former Oregon Ducks offensive coordinator Kenny Dillingham as the new head coach in 2022.
With that said, The Athletic reports that Dillingham’s contract may or may not be affected by this self-imposed playoff ban.
“Per Dillingham’s contract, if the NCAA imposes a postseason bowl ban or a scholarship reduction of four or more, Arizona State has to ask the Board of Regents to extend his contract for each year the sanctions are in effect with subsequent $100,000 raises each year. The contract does not include language regarding a self-imposed bowl ban, but it would be shocking if the university didn’t do this.”
This is probably the best decision Arizona State can make while the NCAA investigation continues.
The Sun Devils are not viewed as a legitimate playoff contender out of the Pac-12. So, it makes sense to bow out of the playoff race in 2023 rather than wait for the NCAA to potentially give them a longer ban.
Additionally, Arizona State will be moving to the Big 12 in 2024. Doing that move alone should bring more eyes to the school and potentially increase recruiting.
Essentially, the Sun Devils will have a fully fresh start once they transition to the Big 12.
The NCAA may provide a statement on this situation. Especially considering they’re still conducting an investigation. So, keep a close eye on Arizona State, as more information could come to light in the coming months.