Sam Leavitt’s journey to college football success has been influenced by his upbringing, being the youngest in a family with three older siblings, including one who reached the NFL.
This competitive environment shaped him into a determined athlete, as his mother, Tania Leavitt, points out his relentless drive—he never accepted losing, often leading to frustrations whenever he was bested during family games.
Those days of expressing disappointed anger over lost video games, resulting in damaged controllers, are now athing of the past for him.
Now a composed perfectionist, Leavitt has propelled the fourth-seeded Arizona State Sun Devils to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, where they will face fifth-seeded Texas in the Peach Bowl on New Year’s Day.
Much of the praise has gone to running back Cam Skattebo for the team’s remarkable turnaround—a well-deserved recognition.
Skattebo has performed exceptionally, likened to a bowling ball navigating a chaotic course, ultimately earning a spot as a top competitor in the Heisman Trophy race, finishing fifth.
Meanwhile, Leavitt, the 6-foot-2, 200-pound transfer from Michigan State, has played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
He has achieved impressive statistics, throwing for 2,663 yards and 24 touchdowns against just five interceptions this season.
Showing maturity beyond his redshirt freshman status, Leavitt has displayed remarkable decision-making skills, effectively using his mobility to extend plays and contribute as a runner.
“He’s an exceptional talent,” said Arizona State’s coach, Kenny Dillingham.
“His capacity to read the field during games, combined with his incredible work ethic, has been a revelation.
The dedication he exhibits and the processes he follows are truly evident, particularly once you see a player perform throughout an actual season.”
Leavitt’s commitment to football has been evident since his youth, particularly influenced by a dad who played linebacker at BYU and an older brother, Dallin, who spent six seasons in the NFL.
Fascinated by the game, Sam was always eager for insights and continuously absorbed information, becoming known for his film study habits and discipline—starting as early as age 13, he set alarms for shoulder stability exercises.
Even today, he maintains his strong commitment to personal preparation.
The presence of accomplished football figures in his family helped Leavitt recognize the potential of pursuing college and maybe even NFL opportunities through hard work and perseverance.
“From the very beginning, my goal was to reach the College Football Playoff,” said Leavitt.
“It took time to get everyone else on board with that vision, though I wasn’t overly vocal about it.
I focused on taking it week by week, but I had that broader view from the outset.”
His confidence and foresight have transformed him into a natural leader on and off the field.
While he may not have been the most boisterous when joining the team, Leavitt has set an example through dedication and a team-oriented mindset.
In a climate that often promotes individual gain, he made a notable decision to donate all profits from his merchandise sales back to Arizona State’s NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) collective.
Furthermore, when he learned of Arby’s initiative to offer NIL deals to offensive linemen nationwide, Leavitt advocated for the inclusion of Arizona State’s linemen in this initiative.
Consequently, eight offensive linemen from Arizona State recently secured NIL deals with Arby’s.
“I’m grateful to have him on our team,” remarked Dillingham.
“He certainly enhances our program’s prestige.”
Leavitt has a talent for positively impacting everyone he interacts with.