ASU QB Sam Leavitt Out, Jeff Sims to Start vs. Cincinnati

Ribs Injury Sidelines Arizona State Quarterback Sam Leavitt

Arizona State University’s starting quarterback, Sam Leavitt, will be forced to sit out Saturday’s game against Cincinnati due to a rib injury, and his return date remains uncertain. This unexpected development thrusts Jeff Sims, a seasoned quarterback with a wealth of experience, into the spotlight.

A Familiar Face Takes the Reins

Sims, who previously started for both Nebraska and Georgia Tech, will lead the Sun Devils’ offense against the Bearcats. Coach Kenny Dillingham has expressed confidence in Sims’ abilities, having witnessed his impressive performance during the team’s training camp. Although Leavitt’s injury is a significant blow, Dillingham is unfazed, citing Sims’ extensive experience as a starter.

The Road to Recovery

Leavitt suffered the injury during last Friday’s win against Utah, when he took a hit to the ribs that left him struggling to breathe. Despite the discomfort, he persevered and completed the game, throwing for 154 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The severity of the injury means Leavitt may miss multiple games, with Dillingham estimating a recovery period of anywhere from two to four weeks.

Sims’ Impressive Credentials

The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Sims boasts an impressive résumé, having started 23 games for Georgia Tech and the first two games last season at Nebraska. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 4,759 passing yards with 31 touchdowns and 29 interceptions, as well as 1,372 career rushing yards and 12 scores. Dillingham has praised both Leavitt and Sims as possessing “Sunday [NFL] talents.”

A Smooth Transition

With Sims at the helm, the Sun Devils can expect a seamless transition. As Dillingham noted, “We brought him in to compete to start… Sam’s a really good player, Sam beat him out, but it was close. Jeff had a good camp. And now Jeff, who has started a crap ton of games, gets to go start again. To me, there’s not much drama.” As Arizona State prepares to face Cincinnati, followed by an open week and a trip to Oklahoma State on November 2, Sims’ experience and leadership will be crucial in guiding the team through this challenging period.

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