LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt has been unexpectedly listed as doubtful for the team’s upcoming rivalry game against Ole Miss due to an upper-body injury. The designation, revealed on the SEC’s initial availability report ahead of the Saturday night matchup, leaves the Tigers’ offense facing a major hurdle in Oxford.
The mood surrounding Oxford shifted sharply when the initial SEC availability report was released on Wednesday night. For No. 7 LSU, the sudden inclusion of its starting quarterback on the injury report caught observers off guard.
From Normal Postgame Recovery to Practice Limits
Few outside the program anticipated any physical setbacks for Leavitt after last weekend’s 45-14 victory over Louisiana Tech at Tiger Stadium. After a turnover-filled first half that saw LSU nursing a single-possession lead, Leavitt rebounded to rack up 366 total yards and four touchdowns, despite tossing three interceptions.
When speaking with reporters after the final whistle, the Arizona State transfer showed no visible signs of distress. Asked about the upcoming rivalry clash, Leavitt told reporters, I’m just focusing on tonight, getting better, getting the body healthy,
before adding, But no, it’s going to be an incredible opportunity.
However, reality shifted behind closed doors in Baton Rouge. Leavitt did not throw during Wednesday’s practice session. He also missed a scheduled media availability session on Tuesday, where he was expected to discuss the Southeastern Conference matchup.
SEC Availability Rules and the 25 Percent Chance
Under the conference’s mandatory availability reporting protocol now in its third season, teams must update player statuses daily leading up to game day. A doubtful
designation translates strictly to a 25 percent chance of playing, defined by the conference as unlikely to play due to significant concerns.
The rules carry strict financial consequences. Programs face conference penalties ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 for late or inaccurate reporting, with enforcement left to the discretion of SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey.
Backup Options: Clark and Longstreet Prepare to Step In
If Leavitt is ultimately sidelined for the weekend, LSU will turn to its depth chart to pilot the offense in Oxford. The primary options include a pair of experienced and highly touted transfers who have seen limited action in blowouts this season.
Landen Clark, an Elon transfer who earned Colonial Athletic Association Co-Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2025, has been the first quarterback off the bench during mop-up duty. Through two games, Clark has completed 7 of 10 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown. Alternatively, the Tigers can look to Husan Longstreet, a former five-star recruit who transferred from USC after completing 13 of 15 passes for 103 yards and a touchdown as a freshman last year.
Beyond the quarterback position, LSU’s injury report includes linebacker TJ Dottery listed as questionable, while reserves Phillip Wright III, Jaiden Braker, and Raycine Guillory Jr. have been ruled out. Updated reports from the Tigers’ coaching staff are scheduled for release on Thursday and Friday ahead of Saturday’s kickoff.
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