🔱 Sam Leavitt: The Sun Devil Signal-Caller Poised for Stardom
- Jordon Leon
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
Arizona State University has found its next great quarterback in Sam Leavitt, a redshirt freshman who turned heads across the college football landscape in 2024. With a rare combination of poise, arm strength, and football IQ, Leavitt not only energized the Sun Devil offense but also laid the foundation for what could be a historic college career.
📊 A Record-Breaking 2024 Season
Leavitt’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of remarkable. In his first full year under center, he threw for 2,885 yards and 21 touchdowns, while adding 443 rushing yards and 3 scores on the ground. His total offensive output of 3,328 yards set a new freshman record at ASU. What made his performance even more impressive was his ability to stay composed under pressure. He ranked among the top 20 quarterbacks nationally in passing yards while pressured and averaged nearly 8 yards per attempt in those situations. Even more telling of his maturity, he committed just five turnover-worthy plays across more than 300 dropbacks—an elite mark for any quarterback, let alone a first-year starter.
🏆 National Recognition and Awards
Leavitt’s breakout season didn’t go unnoticed. He was named Big 12 Freshman of the Year and Newcomer of the Year, and earned national recognition as the second-highest graded freshman quarterback in the country, according to Pro Football Focus. His 88.9 PFF grade placed him ahead of the freshman seasons of current NFL starters like Jalen Hurts, Justin Herbert, and Daniel Jones. His deep-ball accuracy and ability to extend plays drew comparisons to some of the best young quarterbacks in the game today. He also became the first ASU quarterback since Jayden Daniels to generate this level of buzz and statistical output in a debut season.
🔮 What to Expect in 2025
With a full offseason to build chemistry and refine his game, expectations for Leavitt in 2025 are sky-high. He’ll be tasked with leading a young but talented ASU squad back to bowl contention—and possibly a Big 12 title run. The departure of veteran running back Cam Skattebo means Leavitt will take on an even greater share of the offensive load. He’ll also be expected to grow into a more vocal leader, guiding the team through a competitive schedule and high-pressure moments. Analysts already project him as one of the top quarterbacks in the conference, and if ASU can string together a strong season, Leavitt could find himself in the national spotlight as a dark horse Heisman candidate.
🏈 NFL Comparisons and Draft Buzz
NFL scouts are already paying attention. Leavitt’s style of play has drawn comparisons to Brock Purdy for his efficiency and leadership, Trevor Lawrence for his mechanics and field vision, and C.J. Stroud for his accuracy and calm under pressure. His ability to read defenses, make smart decisions, and deliver the ball with precision has made him a standout among underclassmen. If he continues to develop at this pace, he could be a legitimate Day 2 NFL Draft prospect by the end of the 2025 season, with the potential to rise even higher depending on team needs and combine performance.
🏅 Awards Watch: What’s on the Horizon
If Leavitt builds on his 2024 success, he could be in the running for some of college football’s most prestigious honors. The Davey O’Brien Award (nation’s top quarterback), Maxwell Award (best all-around player), and Walter Camp Player of the Year are all within reach. A spot on the All-Big 12 First Team seems likely, and with the right momentum, a trip to New York as a Heisman finalist isn’t out of the question. His statistical ceiling and leadership qualities make him a legitimate contender for national recognition.
🔥 What Fans Can Expect
Sun Devil Nation should buckle up. In 2025, fans can expect more explosive plays, improved red zone execution, and a quarterback who’s not just playing for wins—but for legacy. Leavitt brings a dynamic presence to the quarterback position that ASU hasn’t seen in years. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs, combined with his leadership and football intelligence, make him the kind of player who can elevate an entire program. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Tempe—and on the quarterback wearing number 10.
🗣 Final Word
Sam Leavitt’s journey is just beginning, but the foundation he laid in 2024 has already made him a household name in Tempe. If 2025 goes as expected, he could etch his name alongside ASU greats like Jake Plummer and Andrew Walter—and maybe even surpass them.