Can't Wait For Saturday If Leavitt is ready, Kiffin knows how to get the most out of transfer quarterbacks
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Jun. 24—***
Earlier in June, I used this space to count down the Top 10 Heisman Trophy candidates for 2026. (The list is at the bottom.)
That doesn't come close to covering all the possibilities. Last year, Fernando Mendoza wasn't considered a candidate going into the year. So, into July. I will float some names of guys who might enter the conversation if they get off to a hot start.
Today, another transfer.
Sam Leavitt, LSU quarterback
The Oregon native started his college career at Michigan State. After a season in East Lansing, he transferred to Arizona State.
Leavitt found success with Kenny Dillingham as his coach, throwing for 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns in 2024, helping he Sun Devils reach the College Footblall Playoff.
In 2025, a foot injury forced him to have surgery and Leavitt missed the back half of the season.
After the season he announced his intent to transfer and landed a deal with LSU and Lane Kiffin for reported big money.
Kiffin worked wonders at Mississippi with Trinidad Chambliss before he left him and his teammates to take over at LSU. As much as I dislike Kiffin — and I really do — he has been a quarterback guru, helping develop Matt Barkley, Matt Corral and Jaxson Dart to name a few.
If he stays healthy, Leavitt is capable of putting up big numbers and forcing his way into the Heisman race. The Tigers face a loaded schedule, with games against Clemson, Mississippi, Texas A&M, Alabama and Texas.
1. Jeremiah Smith Ohio State receiver
2. Arch Manning Texas quarterback
3. Malachi Toney Miami receiver
4. Julian Sayin Ohio State quarterback
5. Trinidad Chambliss Mississippi quarterback
6. CJ Carr, Notre Dame quarterback
7. Dante Moore, Oregon quarterback
8. Demond Williams Jr., Washington quarterback
9. Josh Hoover, Indiana quarterback
10. Darian Mensah, Miami quarterback
Byrum Brown, Auburn quarterback
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