Good Vibes Only: ASU QB Sam Leavitt Makes Massive Statement In Epic Comeback Performance!
TEMPE — Sam Leavitt made a strong impression in his return from injury, delivering his best performance as a passer in ASU football’s 42-21 victory over Oklahoma State on Saturday.
“It was all about feeling comfortable,” Leavitt said after practice on Tuesday. “Each week, I’ve been getting more at ease … and realizing that I was making things too complicated for myself in previous games.
“I focused on taking the easy throws that the defense gave me instead of trying to force a spectacular play, but you have to step up and make plays when needed.”
The redshirt freshman completed 20 of 29 passes for a career-high 304 yards and threw three touchdowns. According to PFF, he was ranked as the 14th-best quarterback in the Power Four for the week.
His performance also caught national attention from prospect evaluator Clint Brewster of 247 Sports, who placed Leavitt ninth in his quarterback power rankings.
During his time away from the field, Leavitt concentrated on refining the details, such as avoiding pre-snap signals that might indicate whether he would run or pass, and being mindful of his cadences and eye movements. He also focused on improving his footwork as he and the coaching staff analyzed his performance during his absence, which included a missed game and a bye week.
“I worked on doing everything I could while maintaining a positive attitude. I believe that our bodies heal as much as we allow them to,” Leavitt explained. “I’m a firm believer in the benefits of meditation and manifestation. I aimed to keep the team’s energy up. Even when I could just jog around without practicing, I tried to bring some energy to the team.”
He noted that upon returning, he took a gradual approach, easing back into practice and focusing on one day at a time. Leavitt mentioned that recovery was particularly challenging due to how a rib injury impacts a quarterback’s throwing motion.
“It was difficult because it was on my right side, so every time I open up to throw, it causes strain,” Leavitt explained. “As a quarterback, you want to perform for the team but also have to be mindful not to overexert yourself, so you need to strike a balance. Overall, I was pleased with how the rehabilitation process went.”
Regarding the status of ASU’s running back Cam Skattebo, head coach Kenny Dillingham labeled him as “doubtful to questionable” due to an undisclosed injury on Monday, yet he was still listed as a starter on Tuesday night’s depth chart.
“We’re just going to stick to our game plan, and we have plenty of other capable backs, so I’m not too concerned,” Leavitt said. “Skat’s obviously a tremendous player, and it’s a blast to play alongside him, but we’ll see how it plays out. I’m really not worried at all; we have some excellent running backs.”
Dillingham also conveyed confidence in the depth of the running back position during Monday’s comments.
Along with Kyson Brown, who had a career-high game with 63 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries, the Sun Devils are likely to rotate in DeCarlos Brooks and Alton McCaskill.
True freshman Jason Brown Jr., who typically practices with the scout team, wore a regular jersey in practice on Tuesday and even took a rep with the first team. He has only played in the Week 1 victory over Wyoming, during which he gained 33 yards on four attempts.