After a disappointing first season as head coach in 2023, Kenny Dillingham entered his second year at Arizona State in need of a new quarterback, following the transfer of former starter Jaden Rashada to the University of Georgia.
With only one experienced quarterback, Trenton Bourguet, on the roster, Dillingham turned to the transfer portal for competition. He recruited Sam Leavitt from Michigan State and Jeff Sims from Nebraska.
Sources: Sam Leavitt has been named the starting quarterback at Arizona State for the opener against Wyoming. He beat out transfer Jeff Sims (Georgia Tech/Nebraska), and both have been informed of the decision. pic.twitter.com/sfFzEMMFZJ
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) August 19, 2024
Dillingham then conducted an open competition among the three quarterbacks. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel on Monday, Sam Leavitt has emerged as the starter after a standout performance in preseason camp. He will lead the Sun Devils against Wyoming in their season opener on August 31.
Sam Leavitt, now a redshirt freshman, was named the Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year and a four-star recruit in the Class of 2023 before joining Michigan State. In his limited time with the Spartans, he completed 12 of 23 passes for 123 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.
As he takes on the role of starting quarterback for the Arizona State Sun Devils, Sam Leavitt will have a strong supporting cast, including wide receivers Jake Smith, Malik McClain, and Troy Omeire, as well as tight ends Markeston Douglas and Chamon Metayer.
The backfield will feature a trio of running backs—Cam Skattebo, Alton McCaskill, and Raleek Brown—providing ample offensive options. With these pieces in place, the Arizona State Sun Devils’ offense is poised to be exciting in 2024.
Dillingham is expected to simplify things for his young quarterback while integrating all his offensive weapons. This season marks the Arizona State Sun Devils’ debut in the Big 12 after departing the Pac-12.
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