LSU head coach Lane Kiffin confirmed on Thursday that quarterback Sam Leavitt moved from the doubtful to the questionable category on the SEC’s injury report ahead of the Tigers’ clash with No. 8 Ole Miss on Saturday in Oxford, Mississippi.
Injury status and recent activity
The SEC’s availability policy defines a doubtful designation as a 25% chance to play, indicating significant concerns. Leavitt, who did not appear injured in LSU’s 45‑14 win over Louisiana Tech, was listed as doubtful on Wednesday after missing that day’s workout due to back spasms, according to LouisianaSports.net. He returned to practice on Thursday and spoke to reporters, saying he is focusing on getting his body healthy and looking forward to the game.
Leavitt’s contributions this season
Since transferring from Arizona State, where he earned Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors, Leavitt has been a key part of LSU’s offense. In two games with the Tigers, he has completed 41 of 66 passes for 574 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions, while also rushing for 135 yards and five scores. He threw for a touchdown and ran for three scores in the win over Louisiana Tech, though he also tossed three interceptions.
Potential replacements
If Leavitt is unable to play Saturday, LSU plans to start freshman Husan Longstreet or sophomore Landen Clark. Clark has completed 7 of 10 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown with no interceptions in his two appearances. Longstreet has attempted a single pass, a 33‑yard completion.
SEC reporting and penalties
The SEC requires teams to submit accurate injury reports, with penalties ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 for late or inaccurate filings. Enforcement is at the discretion of SEC commissioner Greg Sankey.
Coach Kiffin’s comments
At a Monday news conference, Kiffin did not provide additional details about Leavitt’s health, and he also omitted the topic during his weekly radio show on Thursday night.
Looking ahead
Ole Miss, ranked No. 8, will present a tough test for LSU regardless of Leavitt’s status. The rivalry game in Oxford promises to be a pivotal moment in the SEC’s early season schedule, with both teams eager to solidify their standings.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
