Arizona State University (ASU) quarterback Sam Leavitt shared a heartfelt moment with head coach Kenny Dillingham, embracing him in a warm hug after the Sun Devils’ 27-24 victory over No. 24 TCU at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe.
The emotional postgame interaction, captured on video, went viral as fans on social media celebrated the duo’s bond, with one user exclaiming, “Just show his smile right here; that’s all you need!” The win marked ASU’s ninth consecutive home victory, solidifying their strong start in Big 12 play.
The game was a nail-biter, with ASU (4-1, 2-0 Big 12) overcoming a tough TCU (3-2, 0-1) led by dynamic quarterback Josh Hoover.
Leavitt, a redshirt sophomore, delivered in clutch moments, connecting with wide receiver Jordyn Tyson for a critical touchdown pass and a two-point conversion, echoing their heroics in the previous week’s 27-24 win over Baylor.
His performance, including 62 rushing yards and a touchdown, earned praise from Dillingham, who called it one of Leavitt’s best games yet. The postgame hug, filled with mutual respect, resonated deeply.
Leavitt, who has emerged as a Big 12 star with 855 passing yards and four rushing touchdowns this season, credited Dillingham’s leadership for his growth.
“He brings out the best in us,” Leavitt said, reflecting on the coach’s focus on team camaraderie. Dillingham, the youngest FBS head coach at 35, emphasised the moment’s significance, noting, “These are 18-to-22-year-olds building memories that last forever.”
Fans packed the stadium, creating a raucous atmosphere Dillingham had urged for days prior. “We needed that crowd tonight,” he said, crediting the home-field advantage for ASU’s unbeaten streak in Tempe.
Social media buzzed with pride, highlighting the team’s brotherhood. However, some criticised ASU’s red zone struggles, with the offence failing to capitalise fully on three TCU turnovers.
The victory positions ASU as a Big 12 contender, with upcoming challenges against Utah and Kansas. Leavitt’s poise under pressure, likened to former ASU quarterback Bo Nix by ESPN analysts, has fuelled Heisman buzz, though he remains focused on team goals.
For now, the image of Leavitt’s smile and Dillingham’s embrace encapsulates a programme on the rise, blending grit, talent, and heart in a season of high expectations.