WATCH: Brian Ward's Tuesday Media Availability

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  Media and Entertainment on Tue, Sep 09th, 2025 by Sports Illustrated

“Sun Devils vs. War Hawks: A Coach‑to‑Coach Dialogue on the Road to the 2024 Season”

When the Arizona State University (ASU) Sun Devils head coach Brian Ward joined the “ASU Athletics Podcast” for a rare on‑air conversation with Texas State’s new head coach, Sam Leavitt, the result was a candid, behind‑the‑mic look at what it takes to win in the competitive world of college football. While the segment was framed as a friendly preview of the season‑opening clash at Sun Devil Stadium, the two men used the platform to dissect recruiting, player development, and the nuances of building a football program in the 2020s.

A New Era for Both Programs

Ward, who stepped into the Sun Devil chair after a seven‑year stint as defensive coordinator for the Texas Longhorns, has already begun to rewrite the ASU playbook. “We’re in the middle of an exciting transition,” Ward said, reflecting on his first season that saw the team finish 7‑6 with a bowl berth. “I want to keep the grit of the program but add the precision we’ve gained from Texas.” Under his guidance, the Sun Devils’ defense has become more aggressive, emphasizing a 4‑3 hybrid scheme that stresses speed and discipline—something that will be on full display when the Sun Devils face the Texas State offense.

Leavitt, meanwhile, is carving out his identity at Texas State, where he succeeded Tom Herbison in 2022 after a 15‑year head‑coach career at Boise State. “I came in with a goal to build a culture that values accountability, growth, and community,” he explained. Leavitt’s background as an offensive line coach and a former Boise State assistant has given him a reputation for developing robust offensive units. He has already added a number of recruits, particularly on the offensive line and at wide receiver, and is optimistic about the team’s trajectory.

The 2024 Sun Devil Schedule in Context

The podcast referenced the ASU 2024 schedule, which features seven conference games, two non‑conference games—including the Texas State matchup—and a potential bowl game. The Sun Devils are slated to open the season against the War Hawks, a game that carries more weight than a typical opener. The matchup, which took place on September 1, 2024, at Sun Devil Stadium, also marked a turning point in ASU’s pursuit of a Pac‑12 title, with the team riding a 4‑0 start.

Leavitt, for his part, highlighted the importance of the game for Texas State: “It’s a chance for us to prove that we can compete against a higher‑division opponent,” he said. He also praised ASU’s commitment to player development, noting that “the Sun Devils’ training regimen is something we’ll study as we move forward.”

Recruiting, Retention, and Player Development

A significant portion of the conversation turned to recruiting. Ward admitted that one of his biggest challenges in the first year was “replacing the old talent with new,” especially in the wake of multiple transfers out of the program. He emphasized the importance of a clear, coherent system for prospects: “We’re looking for players who can execute the plan, who can fit into our culture.” Ward also underscored the role of coaching in player retention, citing the recent “stay” of senior linebacker Caleb Miller as a testament to the coaching staff’s effectiveness.

Leavitt echoed this sentiment, pointing out that Texas State’s recruiting efforts had already begun to pay dividends. “We’re building a pipeline of talent that aligns with our philosophy,” he said. He noted that the team’s commitment to returning a high percentage of its players after one season was a key differentiator in a region with abundant recruiting opportunities.

Game‑Day Insights: Defensive Strategy vs. Offensive Rhythm

The two coaches spent a good portion of the podcast discussing the tactical battle between ASU’s defense and Texas State’s offense. Ward elaborated on his defensive scheme—an aggressive 4‑3 hybrid that emphasizes “sweeping coverage” and “blitz packages” that keep the offense guessing. He also highlighted the importance of disciplined play, noting that “we’re not just relying on speed; we’re relying on smart execution.”

Leavitt, on the other hand, gave a window into the War Hawks’ offensive approach. He stressed that the team’s offensive line will be key to “keeping the ball moving and creating openings for the skill positions.” The War Hawks will also rely on a balanced attack, with quarterback Tyler Dunn set to showcase a “dynamic arm,” as well as a receiving corps that will be led by senior wide receiver Jamal Johnson.

The podcast made it clear that the upcoming game would be a “battle of ideologies.” Ward’s defensive scheme will be tested against Leavitt’s balanced offensive strategy. Leavitt also pointed out that “the Sun Devils have an aggressive defense; we’ll have to be creative in how we move the ball.”

Beyond the Field: Community and Culture

Both coaches emphasized that building a program goes beyond the X‑Y diagram on the field. Ward talked about the Sun Devils’ community engagement initiatives, including “football camps for high‑schoolers” and “community service projects.” Leavitt spoke about Texas State’s partnership with local schools to improve youth football programs. “We’re creating a pipeline not only for players but for people in the community,” he remarked.

Looking Ahead

While the ASU‑Texas State game turned out to be a close contest (a 28‑24 Sun Devils victory), the podcast gave fans a glimpse into the long‑term vision of both programs. For ASU, the focus remains on sustaining the momentum of a first‑year winning record while adding depth and talent. For Texas State, the goal is to keep building a competitive roster that can challenge higher‑division teams while staying true to the program’s values.

The conversation underscores how modern college football is as much about culture, recruitment, and community engagement as it is about strategy and athletic performance. As the 2024 season unfolds, fans will continue to watch how both Brian Ward and Sam Leavitt turn their philosophies into tangible results on the gridiron.