Overview

• A school representative and multiple outlets confirmed Friday that Sam Leavitt will not play at Utah after a late-week downgrade from probable to doubtful.
• Sixth-year veteran Jeff Sims, who has 26 career starts at Georgia Tech, Nebraska and ASU, is slated to lead the Sun Devils’ offense.
• Coach Kenny Dillingham said it would have taken a “mini miracle” for Leavitt to play and emphasized protecting the quarterback’s long-term availability.
• Betting lines shifted toward Utah after the news, with sportsbooks moving the Utes to favorites by more than a touchdown.
• Rain and wind are forecast at Rice-Eccles Stadium, steering both teams toward run-heavy plans as ASU loses a passer who has 1,039 yards and eight TDs this season.