Sam Leavitt Named As ASU Starting Quarterback By Kenny Dillingham
The 6-foot-2, 215-pound Leavitt is a redshirt freshman who transferred to ASU from Washington in January. He was the backup quarterback for the Huskies last season, completing 12 of 18 passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns.
"Sam is a talented and experienced quarterback who we believe has the potential to be a great player for us," Dillingham said. "He has a strong arm, good accuracy and is a good decision-maker. We are excited to see what he can do."
Leavitt will start the season opener against NAU on Sept. 1. He will be the first true freshman to start at quarterback for ASU since Andrew Walter in 2001.
Leavitt is a native of San Clemente, California. He was a four-star recruit coming out of high school and was ranked as the No. 10 pro-style quarterback in the country by 247Sports.
Leavitt committed to Washington in 2020 and redshirted his first season. He played in four games in 2021, completing 9 of 13 passes for 112 yards.
Last season, Leavitt was the backup to Michael Penix Jr. He appeared in three games, completing 12 of 18 passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns.
Leavitt is expected to be a key part of ASU's offense this season. The Sun Devils are looking to rebound from a disappointing 1-11 season in 2022.
Leavitt has the potential to be a very good quarterback. He has a strong arm, good accuracy and is a good decision-maker. He also has good mobility and can extend plays with his legs.
The biggest challenge for Leavitt will be adjusting to the speed of the game at the FBS level. He has only played in seven games in his college career.
If Leavitt can adjust quickly, he has the potential to be a very good quarterback for ASU. He has all the tools to be successful.