The LSU-Ole Miss rivalry shifts in importance with uncertainty around the Tigers’ starting quarterback, a development that immediately affects game planning and roster preparation.
On3’s Pete Nakos reports Sam Leavitt is dealing with a sore throwing shoulder and has been limited in practice, a detail published by Saturday Down South, and LSU has not yet issued its own confirmation of final availability.
Key Takeaways
- Sam Leavitt was listed as doubtful for the LSU–Ole Miss game after being limited in practice with a sore throwing shoulder.
- On3’s Pete Nakos reported the shoulder issue and practice limitations as the reason for Leavitt’s doubtful designation.
- If Leavitt cannot play, Husan Longstreet is LSU’s backup quarterback and the designated next option to start.
- Prediction markets reacted to the reported doubt, shifting public expectations for the LSU–Ole Miss outcome.
Sam Leavitt injury and practice limitations
The injury concern centers on a sore throwing shoulder that has limited Leavitt’s full participation in team drills and led to a doubtful listing on the game status report.
Leavitt joined LSU via the transfer portal after playing at Arizona State and has started two games for the Tigers this season.
In those starts he completed 41-of-66 passes for 574 yards at 8.7 yards per attempt, holds a 2-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio, and has five rushing touchdowns.
How LSU would change the game plan with Husan Longstreet
Husan Longstreet is the backup and would be the immediate option if Leavitt is unavailable for the rivalry game.
Longstreet was a five-star recruit in the Class of 2025 who signed with USC before transferring to LSU after one season, giving coaches a clear developmental profile to weigh.
His live-game experience is limited, with 15 passes across four games at USC and one pass for LSU, which will factor into any plan to simplify or tailor the offense for a backup starter.
Quarterback production and background
| Player | Passing highlights | Background notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sam Leavitt | Completed 41-of-66 for 574 yards at 8.7 yards per attempt; 2-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio; five rushing TDs | Joined LSU via the transfer portal after playing at Arizona State and has started two games for LSU |
| Husan Longstreet | Threw 15 passes across four games at USC and one pass for LSU | Five-star prospect in the Class of 2025 who signed with USC and transferred to LSU after one season |
SEC and CFP implications for LSU depth chart
A quarterback question in a high-profile SEC matchup has immediate consequences for game outcomes and short-term College Football Playoff positioning given the magnitude of the opponent.
Availability issues also expose depth-chart vulnerabilities that can affect recruiting messaging and staff evaluations as the season progresses.
