Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt appeared emotional on the podium, holding hands with running back Cam Skattebo after their heartbreaking double-overtime defeat in the Peach Bowl.Leavitt reflected on the season with gratitude, expressing sorrow that his time playing alongside Skattebo had come to an end. He also shared his aspirations for the upcoming season.“I want to appreciate everything that comes with the season,” Leavitt stated. “The time spent with the team and the effort we put in means a lot. It will be tough not having (Skattebo) next year. Although I have another year left, I plan to approach the next season without taking anything for granted: offseason workouts, late nights at the facility, and all of that.”Shortly after, Leavitt conveyed his confidence in returning to lead the Sun Devils back to the College Football Playoff next year, stating on Instagram, “Love this team!! We’ll be back, believe that.”This confidence mirrored what he and Skattebo expressed leading up to the game when Leavitt aimed to demonstrate his skills as the best quarterback on the field. Despite their loss, he showcased faith in both himself and the Sun Devil football program.The Sun Devils nearly achieved a remarkable comeback after overcoming a 24-8 deficit in the fourth quarter. They took an early lead in overtime, thanks to Leavitt’s impressive plays. However, their championship hopes ended painfully when Leavitt threw an interception during a crucial third down in double overtime, sealing a 39-31 loss.In his first year as a full-time starter, Leavitt made significant strides as a redshirt freshman. Over his last seven games, he completed 64% of his passes with 16 touchdowns and only two interceptions.The Peach Bowl presented a formidable challenge for Leavitt against one of college football’s top defenses, which limited ASU to just three points at halftime. While not flawless, he managed to keep plays alive and contributed significantly to Skattebo’s standout performance in the fourth quarter.With Skattebo moving on to professional football, Leavitt will need to continue developing as a player and leader. Athletic director Graham Rossini noted Leavitt’s consistent drive to compete at a championship level and his belief that such success is achievable at ASU.
Shortly after the Peach Bowl, Sam Leavitt made it clear that he envisions leading the Sun Devils back to the College Football Playoff next year. He expressed his confidence on social media, stating, “Love this team!! We’ll be back, believe that”
.This statement reflects the determination he and his teammates have shown throughout the season, especially after overcoming significant challenges during games. Leavitt’s performance this year has solidified his role as a key player for Arizona State, and he is eager to build on this momentum moving forward.
“Love this team!! We’ll be back, believe that,” Sam Leavitt declared on his Instagram story, showcasing the confidence he and Cam Skattebo had leading up to the Peach Bowl. Leavitt aimed to demonstrate his skills as the best quarterback on the field, reflecting his faith in both the Sun Devil football program and his role as a key player for the future.The Sun Devils came close to achieving a remarkable comeback after overcoming a 24-8 deficit in the fourth quarter. They struck first in overtime, with Leavitt making crucial plays, including a 16-yard scramble that energized ASU legend Jake Plummer on the sidelines.However, their title hopes ended in a heartbreaking double overtime when Leavitt threw an interception on third down while trailing 39-31, concluding the game and their championship aspirations.
The way the 2024 season concluded is how the eagerly awaited 2025 campaign is anticipated to begin — with Leavitt poised to take charge and create something remarkable.
Sam Leavitt’s profile rose in his first year with ASU
Leavitt achieved a lot during his first season as a full-time college starter, particularly in the latter half. In his last seven games, he completed 64% of his passes, throwing for 16 touchdowns and only two interceptions.The Peach Bowl posed a significant challenge for Leavitt, as he faced one of college football’s top defenses, which limited ASU to just three points by halftime. While he wasn’t flawless, he managed to keep plays alive and made crucial contributions that helped Skattebo dominate in the fourth quarter.With Skattebo moving on to pursue a professional career, the offense will undergo changes. Leavitt is expected to continue his development as both a player and a leader.“He’s consistently shown a desire to compete at a championship level, and I believe he senses that this is achievable at ASU,” said athletic director Graham Rossini during an interview. “He knows he has strong support from an excellent coaching staff and an amazing group of teammates. He is a selfless leader, recently sharing his merchandise royalties with teammates to emphasize that it’s about collective success rather than individual accolades.”
