In the high-stakes world of college football, few decisions carry as much weight as the one Arizona State recently made regarding its star quarterback, Sam Leavitt. Following a crushing exit in the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals, the Sun Devils have doubled down on their $3 million investment in the sophomore signal-caller, sparking debate about whether Leavitt is the key to future glory or a costly gamble that could backfire.
The Quarterfinal Collapse
The Sun Devils’ CFP journey came to a shocking end with a gut-wrenching loss that exposed glaring issues in their game plan and execution. Despite lofty expectations, the team fell short against a more prepared and disciplined opponent. Critics have pointed to Leavitt’s inconsistent performance in high-pressure moments, highlighting costly turnovers and missed opportunities that derailed Arizona State’s postseason hopes.
Leavitt, a highly touted recruit with a lucrative NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) valuation, has been the centerpiece of the program since his arrival. His ability to command attention both on and off the field has made him a polarizing figure in college football, with fans divided over whether his talent justifies his record-setting price tag.
Arizona State’s $3M Gamble
At the heart of this controversy lies Arizona State’s decision to retain Leavitt despite his polarizing performance. With a $3 million NIL deal, Leavitt is one of the highest-paid players in college football, a status that brings immense pressure to deliver results. Supporters argue that his arm strength, athleticism, and leadership qualities make him a generational talent worth building around.
Head coach Kenny Dillingham has been vocal in his defense of Leavitt, emphasizing the quarterback’s potential and the need for continuity within the program. “Sam is the kind of player you don’t give up on after one setback,” Dillingham said in a recent press conference. “He’s young, he’s learning, and he’s got all the tools to take us to the next level.”
Divided Opinions
Not everyone is convinced. Critics question whether Arizona State is putting too much faith in Leavitt’s potential rather than his current production. The $3 million price tag looms large, particularly as NIL deals continue to reshape the landscape of college athletics. Detractors argue that such an investment should yield immediate results, and Arizona State’s failure to advance in the playoffs has left many wondering if the program is being held back by its reliance on one player.
“There’s no doubt that Leavitt is talented, but at this level, talent alone isn’t enough,” said a former ASU player who wished to remain anonymous. “The program has to ask itself if it’s getting the return on investment it expected.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the criticism, Arizona State is banking on Leavitt to lead the team into the 2025 season. The offseason will be critical for both the quarterback and the coaching staff as they work to address the weaknesses exposed in the CFP loss. Leavitt’s performance in spring training and early-season matchups will be under intense scrutiny, as fans and analysts alike look for signs that he can live up to his billing.
For Arizona State, the stakes have never been higher. Retaining Sam Leavitt represents not just a commitment to a single player but a gamble on the future of the program. Whether that gamble pays off or becomes a cautionary tale remains to be seen.
One thing is clear: in the ever-evolving world of college football, Arizona State’s $3 million bet on Sam Leavitt will be a storyline that continues to dominate headlines for seasons to come.