Sports360AZ
There has been a shake-up within the Arizona State football coaching staff.
On Friday, multiple reports came out that offensive coordinator Zak Hill has resigned from his position due to the NCAA review of recruiting violation allegations.
In addition to Hill’s departure, Chris Hawkins, Prentice Gill and Adam Brenenman – who were all on administrative leave due to the NCAA investigation – are no longer with the program. Hawkins and Gill were fired with cause while Breneman resigned. Gill is appealing the decision.
Wide receivers coach Bobby Wade and tight ends coach Juston Wood had their interim tags removed and will remain with the program.
Sun Devil Source also reported that investigators have been told other coaches within the staff, including head coach Herm Edwards and defensive coordinator Antonio Pierce, participated in impermissible meetings with recruits. Many of these allegations stemmed from allegations that the coaching staff met with prospects in-person and even paid for travel for recruits during the COVID dead period in 2020.
Under Hill, the Sun Devils struggled at time to find their identity. Since coming from Boise State, Hill was known for utilizing the tight end heavily and a steady run game.
In 2021, the Sun Devils ranked 75th overall in the nation in total yardage (386 yards per game). They ranked sixth in the Pac-12 in total offense and 11th in passing yards. The Sun Devils ranked fifth in the conference in rushing yards at 193.3 yards per game.
The Sun Devils recently added former Super Bowl champion head coach Brian Billick as an offensive analyst, but Devils Digest reported he is not in line to take over offensive coordinator duties.
