Sun Devils Face Utes Without Star Quarterback Sam Leavitt
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Arizona State football will be without the services of starting quarterback Sam leavitt for their Big 12 matchup against Utah on Saturday, Oct. 11, dealing a significant blow to the No. 23 Sun Devils’ season. The team’s head coach indicated Leavitt’s return to the field would require a “mini miracle.”
Arizona State entered Week 7 with a 4-1 record,including a 2-0 mark in Big 12 Conference play,largely thanks to Leavitt’s strong performance. The quarterback has thrown for eight touchdowns and 1,039 yards this season, completing 63.1% of his passes. He previously lead the Sun Devils to a Big 12 championship and a college Football Playoff berth in 2024, his first year as a starter after transferring from Michigan State.
Leavitt’s Injury Status: A Grim Outlook
The injury, which has been ongoing as the Baylor game, has steadily worsened. A senior official stated, “If he plays in the game, it will be a mini miracle.I’ll be absolutely shocked. I think this is the best decision for him and the future season.” Leavitt was initially listed as “probable” on the Oct.9 big 12 availability report, but was afterward downgraded to “doubtful” on the Oct. 9 injury report.
The specific nature of leavitt’s injury remains undisclosed. However, the coach emphasized Leavitt’s dedication, noting, “Sam’s been battling something going back to Baylor. He’s been fighting, fought through the TCU game. Sam does everything he possibly can to come back and play football games here. He’s the ultimate competitor.” the situation deteriorated this week, leading Leavitt to leave Wednesday’s practice. CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz reported on Oct. 10 that Leavitt is expected to miss the matchup against the Utes.
Veteran Jeff Sims Set to Start
With Leavitt sidelined, veteran quarterback Jeff Sims is expected to take the helm for the Sun Devils. Sims has started 26 career collegiate games across three programs – Georgia Tech, Nebraska, and Arizona state – and began his collegiate career at Georgia Tech during the 2020 COVID-impacted season. He previously started one game for Arizona State in 2024, a 24-14 loss to Cincinnati.
Sims brings a different skillset to the table than Leavitt. While Leavitt is known for his passing accuracy, Sims is a dual-threat quarterback capable of making plays with his legs. In limited action this season, sims has shown flashes of his potential, completing 11 of 18 passes for 137 yards and rushing for 63 yards on 11 carries. His statistics from the 2024 season include three interceptions, 55 rushes for 281 yards, and five touchdowns.
Leavitt’s 2025 Season Statistics
Prior to his injury, Leavitt demonstra
Expanded News Report:
Why: Arizona State Sun Devils starting quarterback Sam Leavitt is sidelined due to an undisclosed injury sustained during the Baylor game, which has progressively worsened.
Who:
