Quarterback Showdown Heats Up at Camp Tontozona: Players Gear Up for Open Scrimmage

Arizona State football fans are in for a suspenseful lead-up to the season opener as the quarterback competition intensifies at Camp Tontozona.

PAYSON, Ariz. — With just three weeks until kickoff, Arizona State faces a pivotal decision: who will be the starting quarterback? Contenders include redshirt freshman Sam Leavitt and senior Jeff Sims, both newcomers to the program this season. Head coach Kenny Dillingham indicated that while Leavitt has seen significant action with the first-team offense, there is no set timeline to name the starter.

“Sometimes you want to announce a starter depending on the program’s health, but our program believes in them both,” Dillingham expressed. “They push each other to be better, so we don’t need a rushed decision based on the dynamic and health of the competition,” he added.

Dillingham also commented on the recent practice struggles, highlighting issues with quarterback accuracy and receiver drops. New offensive coordinator Marcus Arroyo echoed the sentiment, downplaying concerns over an off day amid an intensive six-day practice streak.

“We’ve set high standards for this position and will be critical of them,” Arroyo stated. “It was an off day, but we’ve seen a high level of completion throughout camp. We’re focused on daily improvements and handling new situational challenges,” he said.

After Thursday’s practice, Leavitt and Sims shared their perspectives on the competition. Leavitt emphasized consistency and decision-making as critical factors. “Consistency, taking care of the ball, and making plays are key. Being the quarterback that the team needs is crucial,” Leavitt noted.

Sims highlighted his approach to the open competition, stressing consistency and self-improvement. “I aim to be the same person every day, learning from mistakes without overreacting. It’s about competing with myself to get better daily,” Sims said.

Fans can witness the quarterback battle first-hand during Saturday’s scrimmage starting at 9 a.m. at Camp Tontozona.

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