Kenny Dillingham's late-game outburst highlights Kalani Sitake's importance for BYU

With a 5-point lead and 7 seconds on the game clock, ASU quarterback, Sam Leavitt, dropped back on fourth down and a million to chuck the football out of bounds as time expired. The clock ticked down to triple-zero and yellow-clad fans flooded the playing field. The party was on in Tempe.

But as the referees convened about the possibility of time remaining on the game clock, Kenny Dillingham, head coach of the Sun Devils, drew within earshot of the officials' discussion.

What he heard? One second remained on the clock, and possession belonged to BYU. Dillingham blew a fuse when this news was relayed his direction. A screaming, cursing rage overcame him as he unleashed an inescapable fury upon the officiating crew.

"There's no way. There's no way! Bulls---! That's f--- bulls---! It's over, the game is over!"

Severe language warning on the following clip.

With a look of pure disdain, Dillingham's unbridled animation drew the attention of fans and cameras alike, with eyes blinded by anger, even when the official ruling proved to be the correct call.

When the fans were finally cleared off the field nearly 15 minutes later,

BYU's ensuing desperation Hail Mary would fall a few yards short of the end zone, with the Sun Devils retaining their victory and continuing their celebration.

Though the Cougars' second loss of the season was no doubt painful, the reaction from Arizona State's sideline brought to light the drastic contrast between ASU's culture and the culture in BYU's locker room. Most notably how professionally the Cougars' coaches and staff responded to the heartbreaking defeat.

Kalani Sitake, in particular, was seen congratulating the fans as they stormed the field, clearly crushed by the result, but firm in his morals.

"I hate getting mad at the fans," Sitake admitted to the press following the Cougars' 23-28 loss in Tempe. "They're so excited to get the win, it's two ranked teams that were playing. All we heard was there might be one second, and I gonna cling onto hope as long as I can. None of our guys were hurt so there was no big issue there. [...] I understand the fans' excitement and energy and it's okay."

Even Becky Skattebo, mother of the running back who tore up the BYU defense in that meeting, took to X to praise Coach Sitake's sportsmanship after the game.

Though the past two weeks haven't gone BYU's way, the university should be exceptionally proud of the man they have representing his team. Win or lose, Kalani's example to his team is one of love and unconditional support. Say what you will about his coaching merit--though this season's success should positively impact your opinion on that subject--Sitake represents his team with patience and grace.

Hats off to you, coach. You handled this situation far better than most would be capable.

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