LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt is suddenly a major question mark for Saturday night’s highly anticipated SEC opener against Ole Miss.
Leavitt is listed as doubtful for the Top 10 showdown with the eighth-ranked Rebels, according to the SEC’s availability report released Wednesday.
The designation comes as a surprise.
Leavitt showed no apparent signs of an injury following LSU’s 45-14 victory over Louisiana Tech last Saturday, and head coach Lane Kiffin made no mention of an injury to his starting quarterback during his weekly press conference Monday.
Kiffin has traditionally been reluctant to discuss injuries, and he could provide more information Thursday night when he makes his weekly appearance on his radio show at 6 p.m.
Leavitt was also scheduled to speak with reporters Tuesday, but LSU Sports Information Director Michael Bonnette informed the media at the last minute that Leavitt had left the building.
On3.com’s Pete Nakos is reporting that Leavitt is dealing with a sore shoulder and has been limited in practice.
Leavitt had a difficult first half against Louisiana Tech, throwing three interceptions — including two in the red zone. But he bounced back to finish with 344 passing yards and a touchdown while also rushing for three scores.
If Leavitt cannot play Saturday night, LSU is expected to turn to Landen Clark.
The Elon transfer has been the first quarterback off the bench in each of LSU’s first two games, both blowout victories.
Clark has completed 7-of-10 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown this season. He has also rushed seven times for 42 yards.
Clark started at Elon last season, throwing for 2,321 yards, 18 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Leavitt has been one of the biggest reasons for the optimism surrounding LSU’s offense after the Tigers opened the season with a 51-10 victory over Clemson before beating Louisiana Tech.
Now, his availability has become the biggest storyline heading into Saturday night’s showdown in Tiger Stadium.
Other LSU injury news
Starting linebacker T.J. Dottery is listed as questionable, as is fellow linebacker Ty Singleton.
Four LSU players are listed as probable: tight end Trey'Dez Green, linebacker Whit Weeks, offensive guard Aliou Bah and linebacker Davhon Keys.
Reserve wide receiver Phillip Wright III, a Destrehan product, has been ruled out.
But the focus will remain on Leavitt.
The SEC will issue an updated availability report before 7 p.m. Thursday.
