College football witnessed the opening of the winter transfer portal on Monday. Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham took to the phone to present a new pitch to 15-20 players. After his first season in charge, Dillingham sold the prospective players on the chance to build a winning program after consecutive three-win seasons. Many initially didn't believe his case, but those who bought in have played a crucial role in one of college football's most dramatic turnarounds.

The Selling Point: From Hopes to Actions

The selling point for Arizona State has transformed with the team winning the Big 12, reaching the College Football Playoff, and being just three wins away from a national championship. Dillingham emphasized this during an interview with Arizona Sports' Burns & Gambo. He said, "It's not a hope, it's an action, like it's happening. Now, when I call a guy... It's a little bit different, really. 'Oh yeah, I was hoping you'd call. Oh man, I've been watching you guys.' This shift in perception shows the progress the team has made."Dillingham also mentioned that the staff needs to remain focused on bringing in the right players. He stated, "We still have to go through the same process we did last year to get the right guys into this program. Just looking at talent and adding players isn't enough. We need to ensure they have the right mindset."In particular, wide receivers have shown interest in joining the program and playing with redshirt freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt. This indicates the potential for a strong offense in the coming seasons.

Player Retention: Maintaining Talent

Player retention is another crucial aspect for Arizona State to maintain its talent level for the next season. Dillingham said that the majority of the team wants to remain in Tempe. Even players who entered the portal on the first day have the freedom to stick with the Sun Devils through the CFP.Athletic director Graham Rossini told Arizona Sports' Burns & Gambo that the Sun Angel Collective has seen a notable spike since the Utah win earlier this season. This shows the growing community support for the team.Dillingham emphasized the importance of continued community investment. He said, "I think our guys like the environment here. They like each other. They love what's happening. These guys are going to have to turn down some money in order to do this. But they have an opportunity to leave a legacy here. If the value in the community can pour into these guys, they will be more likely to stay."

Aiming for the Top: Emulating Clemson

The Sun Devils are awaiting the winner of Clemson and Texas in the first round of the CFP. As the underdog, Dillingham sees value in playing with that edge. But the ultimate goal is to no longer be overlooked or doubted. ESPN recently ranked ASU last on a list of 52 all-time CFP teams.Dillingham pointed to Clemson as a program he aspires to emulate. He said, "Dabo Swinney took them in this last 15 years from a program that people (thought) they were good, to a program that was consistently competing for championships. Every 10 to 15 years, some team shows up and becomes that generational team, and then they stay there. I think that could be Arizona State. We have the resources, the ability, and the old school connection to a major city that's deep rooted."The transfer portal will remain open until Dec. 28, ahead of ASU's Peach Bowl game on New Year's Day. This gives the team more time to make strategic moves and build on their success.Follow @alexjweiner