Arizona State seniors reportedly 'devastated' by bowl ban announcement

Arizona State announced a self-imposed a 1-year bowl ban on Sunday, less than 1 week before the Sun Devils are set to begin the 2023 season.

The bowl ban comes as Arizona State is being investigated by the NCAA for alleged violations during the Herm Edwards era.

According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, the news of the bowl ban was “devastating” for Arizona State’s locker room, including more than 20 seniors.

“Their entire goal this year was to right the ship and make a bowl game,” an Arizona State source told ESPN.

ASU has confirmed the one-year bowl ban and informed the team. A source said the reaction in the meeting was “devastating” to the players, especially among the more than 20 seniors. “Their entire goal this year was to right the ship and to make a bowl game,” said an ASU source.

— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) August 27, 2023

Arizona State’s program is now led by head coach Kenny Dillingham. The Sun Devils were active in the transfer portal this offseason, adding more than 30 transfers to its roster.

ASU is coming off of a 3-9 season. Edwards was fired early during the 2022 campaign following a 1-2 start. Arizona State last made a bowl game in 2021.

Jaden Rashada, a true freshman, is expected to start at quarterback for Arizona State in Week 1. The Sun Devils will begin the 2023 campaign at home against Southern Utah on Thursday.