LSU QB Sam Leavitt Listed as Doubtful for Huge Ole Miss Matchup

LSU and Ole Miss are preparing for the biggest SEC showdown of this early season. Both programs enter the game holding spots inside the Top 10, and the upcoming matchup has the attention of the whole country, drawing attention from coast to coast this weekend.

Tension escalated during the offseason after Lane Kiffin departed Ole Miss to accept the Head Coach position at LSU. The coaching change generated friction between the universities...which has been escalating with words, transfers, and lawsuits.

Quarterback Sam Leavitt Lands On SEC Availability Report

The initial SEC availability/injury report for the week delivered a roster development for the LSU offense that has a lot of fans, reporters, and probably players shook. LSU Quarterback Sam Leavitt is listed as "doubtful" for the weekend game against Ole Miss.

This is catching a lot of people off guard, because there really wasn't much prior indication that Leavitt sustained any injury. His placement on the report creates questions regarding the team's preparations for the game.

Offensive Scheme Faces Immediate Challenges

If Leavitt fails to play, the LSU coaching staff must evaluate the backup depth chart. The next name up appears to be Husan Longstreet.

Harry How, Getty Images

The offensive responsibilities now likely fall to redshirt Freshman Longstreet. The former five star recruit transferred to Baton Rouge this offseason after a brief stint at USC. Longstreet currently sits as the primary backup option for the Tigers.

Longstreet brings arm talent, and mobility, to the playbook...but handing the offense to an inexperienced freshman in a rivalry game carries immense risk.

The timing of this injury report creates a disadvantage for Kiffin as he prepares for his former program. A pivot in personnel requires immediate adjustments to the playbook. Playing without the starting quarterback puts LSU at a tactical deficit.