From Newsweek · Matthew Couden · · 50s
Nick Saban Says Sam Leavitt Will Play
Saban claims Leavitt's injury is a tactic to boost Rebels' confidence.
In brief
Saban claims Leavitt's injury is a tactic to boost Rebels' confidence. Nick Saban believes Sam Leavitt's injury status is a strategic move by Lane Kiffin to challenge Ole Miss defense. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Saban's stance on Leavitt
Nick Saban says Sam Leavitt will play Saturday's game despite injury reports.
“I would be actually psychologically telling the [Ole Miss] defensive players that this doesn't matter. Sam Leavitt's gonna play; he's gonna be the best; we gotta stop him.”
Leavitt's injury status
Leavitt listed as 'doubtful' then upgraded to 'questionable' by ESPN's Pete Thamel.
Kiffin's strategy
Lane Kiffin reportedly uses mental warfare to challenge Ole Miss defense.
“Don't lose your edge because you think he's not gonna play and then he shows up and it's a downer.”
Leavitt's stats
Leavitt has 574 passing yards and two touchdowns with four interceptions.
LSU-Ole Miss game
LSU faces Ole Miss Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET in Oxford, Mississippi.
Next update
Update expected Friday night or 90 minutes before kickoff on injury status.
What to remember
Nick Saban believes Sam Leavitt's injury status is a strategic move by Lane Kiffin to challenge Ole Miss defense.
