The Sun Devils, currently riding high with a 3-0 record, are coming off a close 31-28 win over Texas State. This weekend, they’ll head into their first Big 12 conference game against Texas Tech, a team sitting at 2-1. With high stakes and pressure mounting, Dillingham’s decision to trust Leavitt is one that could define the team’s future. Leavitt, who transferred to ASU from Michigan State, wasn’t simply handed the starting spot; he earned it. During spring practices, Leavitt outshined seasoned veterans like Trenton Bourguet and Jeff Sims (a transfer from Nebraska) to take the lead. And despite the intense competition, he held onto that top spot throughout the summer’s fall camp.
Dillingham’s belief in Leavitt was clear when he said, “I'm glad he's the guy that, with four years left, I get to say my tenure here is linked very strongly to him. I'm glad that he's the guy that it's linked to.” These aren’t words you hear from a coach who’s unsure of his choice. Dillingham sees something special in Leavitt—a player he trusts to lead not just this season, but possibly the next four, as ASU builds for the future.
Leavitt, in turn, has shown he’s worthy of that trust. In his debut for Arizona State, he was poised, passing for 258 yards in a win over Wyoming. That game immediately put him on the radar, but like any young player, consistency would become the next hurdle. Against Mississippi State, Leavitt’s passing yards dipped to just 69 as ASU leaned heavily on their ground game. However, that minor setback didn’t stop him from bouncing back. It was in the recent Texas State game where Leavitt truly showed his ability to rise to the occasion. He threw for 246 yards and added an electrifying 40-yard run that set up a crucial touchdown. His performance silenced doubts about whether the Sun Devils had a balanced enough offense to compete with tougher opponents.
For a freshman quarterback, Leavitt has shown remarkable composure under pressure. He’s only turned the ball over once in three games, a stat that speaks to his maturity and understanding of the game. This level of self-discipline and decision-making is not something every young quarterback possesses, making Leavitt’s start to the season even more impressive.
“People are going to ask me questions about Sam every week, and it's going to be the same thing,” Dillingham said of his young quarterback. “He’s the same dude every week. He’s going to show up early. He’s going to leave late. He’s going to do everything he can to prepare. He’s going to be hard and critical of himself.” This speaks to Leavitt’s work ethic, a trait that seems to have earned him respect from both his coach and his teammates. Being a quarterback isn’t just about talent on the field; it’s about leadership, preparation, and accountability. Dillingham’s words make it clear that Leavitt ticks all those boxes.
Leavitt, just 19 years old, spoke to the media on Tuesday, acknowledging his coach’s praise. “It’s really cool,” Leavitt said, smiling as he reflected on Dillingham’s comments. “He’s able to see the work I put in, and I’m able to see the work he puts in, and there’s a lot of trust there. Trust is earned, not given, and I feel like I’ve done a fair amount to earn it, but I’ve only played three games. I’m going to challenge our team as a whole to see how they respond to success, and I’m looking forward to getting better every single day.” This quote reveals a humble yet confident young athlete who understands that while the start of his journey has been promising, there’s still a long road ahead. His mindset is one of growth, both personally and for the team, which is exactly what ASU needs in a leader.
One of the more exciting developments off the field is Leavitt’s first NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal. He’s partnered with Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers, a popular Arizona-based restaurant chain. The “Sam Leavitt QB 10” wrap has already become a hit, with 10% of the proceeds going to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital. For a young player to land such a deal so early in his career speaks not only to his talent but also to his marketability. Leavitt himself seems genuinely excited about the opportunity, saying, "It's really cool to associate my name with something."
This deal not only cements Leavitt’s rising star status but also opens the door to future endorsements, especially if ASU continues its winning ways. With his calm demeanor on the field, combined with his emerging presence off it, Leavitt is poised to become one of the faces of Arizona State football.
Looking at the bigger picture, the future for Leavitt and the Sun Devils appears bright. If Leavitt continues to develop at this rate, Arizona State might find themselves in a much stronger position in the Big 12 than anyone could have predicted. The trust that Dillingham has placed in Leavitt, coupled with the work ethic and leadership qualities the young quarterback displays, is a recipe for long-term success.
In many ways, the 2024 season is shaping up to be a defining one for both Dillingham and Leavitt. As they continue to build trust and navigate the challenges ahead, their success could transform not only ASU football but also their individual legacies. For Leavitt, the road is long, but the foundation is strong. For Dillingham, the gamble on a freshman quarterback may turn out to be his greatest coaching decision yet. Either way, this season’s journey for Arizona State football is bound to be an exciting one.
If the Sun Devils can keep up their momentum and Leavitt continues to grow into his role, there’s no telling what the future holds. The upward trajectory of the team and Leavitt’s rising star power are bound to attract more attention—both from fans and potential sponsors. For now, though, Leavitt remains focused on the task at hand: leading ASU to victory, one game at a time.
Login