### Arizona State's Quarterback Woes: Sam Leavitt's Injury Compounds Team Challenges Arizona State University (ASU) is facing significant challenges as quarterback Sam Leavitt has been ruled out for the upcoming game against Iowa State due to a recurring foot injury. This injury comes after Leavitt had already missed a game earlier in the season and has raised concerns about the Sun Devils' offensive capabilities moving forward. The team, which is currently struggling in the Big 12 standings, will have to adapt quickly as they prepare for a crucial matchup against a rival team. ### Breakdown of the Situation 1. **Injury Details**: - Sam Leavitt sustained a foot injury during the game against Houston, where he left the field twice before ultimately being sidelined for the Iowa State game [https://apnews.com/article/sam-leavitt-injury-arizona-state-football-7c06599b68c548ac14d191503b85374e]. - He had previously missed a game against Utah due to the same injury [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/arizona_state_qb_sam_leavitt_foot_out_vs_iowa_state/s1_17047_42976829]. 2. **Impact on Team Performance**: - Leavitt's absence is a significant blow to the Sun Devils, who are already struggling with a 5-3 record and have lost two of their last three games [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/arizona_state_takes_another_hit_as_qb_sam_leavitt_is_out_against_iowa_state/s1_17087_42976616]. - The team will rely on senior quarterback Jeff Sims, whose performance has been inconsistent, particularly on the road [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/arizona_state_qb_sam_leavitt_sidelined_for_arizona_states_title_rematch_with_iowa_state/s1_17047_42978479]. 3. **Upcoming Challenges**: - The Sun Devils face Iowa State in a rematch of last year's Big 12 Championship, where they previously triumphed 45-19. However, the stakes are lower this season as both teams are struggling [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/arizona_state_takes_another_hit_as_qb_sam_leavitt_is_out_against_iowa_state/s1_17087_42976616]. - If wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is also unable to play, ASU may need to adjust its offensive strategy significantly [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/arizona_state_takes_another_hit_as_qb_sam_leavitt_is_out_against_iowa_state/s1_17087_42976616]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Leavitt's Performance Metrics**: - In the last game against Houston, Leavitt threw for **270 yards** and **one touchdown** before being injured [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/arizona_state_qb_sam_leavitt_foot_out_vs_iowa_state/s1_17047_42976829]. - His completion rate stands at **59.3%**, compared to Sims' **47.4%** on the road, highlighting the potential drop in offensive efficiency [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/arizona_state_takes_another_hit_as_qb_sam_leavitt_is_out_against_iowa_state/s1_17087_42976616]. ### Conclusion: Navigating Adversity **Arizona State's football team is at a critical juncture as they prepare for their game against Iowa State without their starting quarterback, Sam Leavitt.** 1. **Injury Impact**: Leavitt's foot injury has sidelined him for the second time this season, raising concerns about the team's depth and performance. 2. **Offensive Adjustments**: With Jeff Sims stepping in, the Sun Devils may need to pivot their game plan, especially if other key players are unavailable. 3. **Future Outlook**: The upcoming game against Iowa State will be a test of resilience for ASU, as they aim to regain momentum in a challenging season [https://www.si.com/college-football/sam-leavitt-injury-update-sun-devils-bad-news-quarterbacks-future].