The data likes Arizona State, and the data doesn’t lie.

Intact leadership team? Coach Kenny Dillingham has a new contract, as do offensive coordinator Marcus Arroyo and defensive playcaller Brian Ward.

Returning quarterback and playmaker? Sam Leavitt is considered a second-tier Heisman Trophy candidate while receiver Jordyn Tyson received preseason All-American recognition.

Cohesion in the trench and a veteran defense? The offensive linemen have 111 career starts, and the defense returns players responsible for 74 percent of last season’s tackles.

All the measurables necessary to withstand injuries, win 11 games again, repeat as Big 12 champions, qualify for the College Football Playoff and produce the best back-to-back seasons at ASU in half a century?

Yes.

In just his third season,

See Full Page