Sam Leavitt chose to depart Arizona State University primarily out of a desire to challenge himself in a different competitive landscape and elevate his preparation for professional football. After establishing strong camaraderie and achieving great success in Tempe, he entered the NCAA transfer portal to commit to LSU. Leavitt noted that while his situation at ASU felt comfortable and familiar, playing under head coach Lane Kiffin in Baton Rouge offered a unique competitive environment that would push him further as a quarterback looking toward future professional aspirations.