LSU Quarterback's Injury Status Fuels Speculation Ahead of Ole Miss Clash
Sam Leavitt listed as 'doubtful' raises questions amid rivalry game and coach Lane Kiffin's return.
LSU's starting quarterback, Sam Leavitt, has been designated as 'doubtful' for Saturday night's matchup against Ole Miss, a development that has generated significant speculation, particularly given the highly anticipated return of LSU coach Lane Kiffin to his former program. Leavitt appeared healthy and led LSU to a decisive 45-14 victory over Louisiana Tech last Saturday, making his inclusion on the injury report surprising to many.
LSU released the injury report late Wednesday, prompting questions as Kiffin himself had not mentioned any injury concerns for his starting quarterback during his media availability on Monday. This has led to widespread suggestions that the report could be a strategic tactic, or "mind games," intended to prompt Ole Miss to prepare for backup quarterback Husan Longstreet.
The Southeastern Conference's (SEC) policy defines 'doubtful' as a player having only a "25% chance to play" and being "unlikely to play due to significant concerns." According to ESPN college football insider Pete Thamel, sources within the Ole Miss staff are reportedly unconvinced that Leavitt's "doubtful" designation is genuine and expect him to play.
Should LSU be found to have intentionally misled regarding Leavitt's status, the team could face a fine ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, subject to the final decision of Commissioner Greg Sankey. The SEC has regulations against gamesmanship aimed at concealing a player's true availability for competitive advantage.
The game itself is a pivotal contest for both teams, with LSU ranked No. 7 and Ole Miss No. 8 in the AP poll. This rivalry game also marks Lane Kiffin's first return to Oxford, Mississippi, since leaving his position as Ole Miss head coach to accept a $91 million contract with LSU. Kiffin has previously spoken about potential "safety issues" surrounding his return to Oxford.
Kiffin noted the significant attention on him personally during the week, suggesting the pressure is on his players. He highlighted Ole Miss's strong returning talent, including Heisman Trophy candidates Trinidad Chambliss and Kewan Lacy, who were developed during his tenure. Kiffin emphasized the positive trajectory of both programs since his departure from Ole Miss and arrival at LSU, pointing out that Saturday's game is the first top-10 matchup between the two teams since 1962, signifying the relevance of the programs he has been involved with.