A twist no one saw coming — Arizona State might be without its star quarterback just as the stakes get real. But here's where things take an unexpected turn: Sam Leavitt, the fiery dual-threat QB who was supposed to lead the Sun Devils into a high-pressure Big 12 clash against Utah, is suddenly listed as doubtful for Saturday’s matchup. The sudden downgrade came late Thursday night, barely 24 hours after he was reported as probable. And this is the part most fans didn’t see coming... he’s been battling a persistent injury far longer than anyone realized.
A Sudden Setback Amid High Expectations
Leavitt, known for his mobility and leadership on the field, participated in every team practice this week and was widely expected to start at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. Yet despite those encouraging signs, Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham revealed Friday morning on a local radio show that Leavitt has been dealing with an injury sustained in Week 4 against Baylor — one that’s quietly lingered ever since. According to Dillingham, not even a bye week and extra rest were enough to bring Leavitt back to full strength.
“He’s been fighting through it,” Dillingham explained. “He pushed himself hard against TCU, went through rehab, even outside therapy sessions — everything he could to get back out there. But after Wednesday’s practice, it just didn’t feel right.” The coach emphasized that this isn’t a strategic mind game meant to catch Utah off balance; the downgrade is real. “We’re being honest about it,” he said firmly. “It’s accurate. If he does play, it’ll be a mini miracle.”
The Bigger Picture — Health Over Heroics
That phrase — mini miracle — grabbed attention, especially considering what happened the last time Leavitt faced Utah. In that 2024 matchup, while Utah was dealing with its own quarterback injury issues, Leavitt suffered a brutal hit that left him with two broken ribs and a punctured lung. With that memory still fresh and Utah’s defense notorious for its physical play, Dillingham’s decision to play it safe makes sense. “At the end of the day,” he said, “we’ve got to protect people from people.”
Who Steps In Now?
If Leavitt can’t go, the Sun Devils will turn to seasoned backup Jeff Sims — a fifth-year senior whose football journey has taken him from Georgia Tech to Nebraska and now to Arizona State. Sims hasn’t thrown a pass this season but has recorded 22 rushing yards on three carries. Last year, he appeared in four games, completing 52% of his passes for 168 yards, while also adding 101 yards and one touchdown on the ground. His early college days at Georgia Tech showcased flashes of brilliance, including a freshman year line of 1,881 passing yards and 18 touchdowns — though his production has steadily declined since.
Injury Reports and What’s Next
Arizona State still has two official chances to update Leavitt’s condition: one Friday night at 8 p.m. MDT and another roughly 90 minutes before kickoff. Meanwhile, Utah’s roster appears nearly intact, with defensive tackle Dallas Vakalahi cleared to play after being lifted entirely from their injury report.
The Conversation Everyone’s Having
So here’s the lingering question: Should Dillingham hold out his star player for health’s sake, or is this the kind of game where risking it all might define a season? And perhaps a more controversial thought — could Arizona State be quietly preparing to test Utah’s defense with the more mobile Sims instead? Fans, what do you think? Should Leavitt suit up if he feels even halfway ready, or is this the time to prioritize the long game over short-term glory? Drop your thoughts — this one’s bound to spark a debate.
