Could Sam Leavitt Be Indiana’s Next Star Under Center?
Fernando Mendoza gave Indiana fans a season they'll never forget. The program’s first-ever Heisman Trophy winner, Mendoza elevated the Hoosiers to national relevance and redefined what was possible in Bloomington. But with his college eligibility now officially up, the program faces a familiar but daunting challenge: replacing a generational talent at quarterback.
Enter Sam Leavitt.
The Arizona State quarterback - and former Michigan State Spartan - has officially entered the transfer portal, instantly becoming one of the most intriguing signal-callers available this offseason. And according to early reports, Indiana is in the thick of it, emerging as one of the top programs to watch in Leavitt’s recruitment. Oregon, Miami, and LSU are also in the mix, but don’t count out the Hoosiers just yet.
Let’s break down why Leavitt could be more than just a Mendoza replacement - he might be the perfect fit for Curt Cignetti’s offense.
A Proven Playmaker With Dual-Threat Ability
Leavitt’s resume speaks for itself. Over three seasons, he’s thrown for 4,652 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just 11 interceptions.
That’s solid production, but what makes him especially dangerous is what he can do with his legs. Leavitt has added 816 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground, giving him the kind of dual-threat profile that’s become increasingly valuable in today’s game.
That versatility was on full display this past season, when he helped lead Arizona State to a College Football Playoff berth - a remarkable feat in its own right. Whether he was evading pressure, extending plays, or taking off for chunk yardage, Leavitt consistently found ways to move the chains.
Why Indiana Makes Sense
Indiana might not be the flashiest destination on paper, especially when you’re competing with programs like Oregon and LSU. But there’s a compelling case to be made for why Bloomington could be the ideal landing spot for Leavitt.
First, there’s the Mendoza precedent. Remember, Mendoza wasn’t a household name when he arrived in Indiana after transferring from Cal - another Pac-12 program.
What he became under Cignetti’s guidance was a Heisman winner and the face of a revitalized program. That’s not to say Leavitt is guaranteed to follow the same script, but the blueprint is there.
Second, Cignetti has shown he knows how to get the most out of his quarterbacks. His system is built to maximize a QB’s strengths, and with Leavitt’s mobility and arm talent, there’s a real opportunity for him to thrive.
Big Shoes to Fill - But the Talent Is There
Let’s be clear: replacing Mendoza won’t be easy. He wasn’t just a stat machine - he was a leader, a playmaker, and the emotional engine of the Hoosiers’ offense. Whoever takes over next season will be stepping into a spotlight that’s never been brighter in Indiana football history.
But Leavitt has the tools to handle that pressure. He’s battle-tested, athletic, and experienced.
He’s already shown he can win in big moments and elevate the players around him. That’s exactly what Indiana needs right now - someone who can keep the momentum going and build on the foundation Mendoza helped lay.
What’s Next?
With the transfer portal heating up, expect Leavitt’s recruitment to move quickly. Indiana will have to make a strong pitch - and they’ll be up against some heavy hitters. But if they can land him, it could be the most important move of the offseason.
Mendoza may be gone, but the Hoosiers don’t have to start from scratch. With the right quarterback, they can keep building. And Sam Leavitt might just be the guy to lead them into the next chapter.