ASU quarterback Manny Wilkins stepped up to the interview podium at Sun Devil Stadium and was choking back tears before he sat down. Wilkins, a fifth-year senior, and 15 others had just finished their last game on home turf with the Sun Devils surviving UCLA 31-28.
With the victory, ASU (6-4, 4-3) became bowl-eligible in coach Herm Edwards' first year. It also keeps ASU in control of the crowded Pac-12 South. The importance of the moment was not lost on the player who has been the spirited leader of the Sun Devils.
“Life could take you so many different ways, and you just trust God’s plans," Wilkins said as he received a pat on the back from junior center Cohl Cabral.