Sam Leavitt could be on verge of becoming an absolute cheat code

As we know, we've seen a pretty drastic in-season evolution from Sam Leavitt. He's trusting his O-line more, going through progressions, reading the field, and throwing a ton of absolute dots. The offense has gotten significantly more dangerous and efficient as a result, all while missing one of our biggest playmakers for most of those games (Trey'Dez Green).

And of course, much of that evolution as a passer has come since the hamstring injury he suffered against the Aggies back on September 26. Even in last week's Auburn game, Leavitt still looked visibly hindered, particularly on an early scramble where he appeared to be running at half-speed. Overall, it seemed like he was being cautious and trying to avoid reinjury, knowing the hamstring probably still isn't 100%.

But despite the limitations, by the end of the game he was still able to dig deep and use his legs effectively, making guys miss and picking up some gutty first downs. He finished with 54 rushing yards on 8 attempts (1 TD, long of 14), to go along with a whopping 387 yards through the air.

Now imagine this evolved, pass-first version of Leavitt with his full explosiveness back. That's where he becomes an absolute cheat code, particularly on third down. Think about the dilemma defenses will face on 3rd-and-4, 3rd-and-5, or 3rd-and-6. Play man coverage, and you've got defenders with their backs turned to a QB who can take off for 15+ yards in a heartbeat. Sit back in zone, and he's becoming increasingly effective at finding the soft spots and picking you apart. Dedicate a spy to contain him, and you've sacrificed a defender in coverage against a QB who's now confidently working through his progressions. And if nothing's open, he's got the elite twitchiness and acceleration to make something happen with his legs. Some of those gutty 8-yard pickups we've been seeing could turn into 30-yard gains or touchdowns when he's fully healthy. The red zone becomes a nightmare for many of the same reasons.

He's not perfect (and I doubt he'll ever completely eliminate the occasional head-scratching throws that come with gunslingers like him), but his ceiling is as high as anyone's in the sport, and LSU's ceiling rises right along with it.

I'm excited to see what this version of Leavitt looks like at full strength. Hopefully the bye week gets him there.