Sam Leavitt injury bombshell sends LSU-Ole Miss showdown into chaotic mode, as Kiffin's return looms, tell me about this news in (https://www.foxnews.com/outkick-sports/sam-leavitt-injury-bombshell-sends-lsu-ole-miss-showdown-chaotic-mode-kiffin-return-looms)

Ahead of the highly anticipated LSU–Ole Miss matchup, LSU starting quarterback Sam Leavitt was unexpectedly listed as “doubtful” on the SEC’s initial midweek availability and injury report, throwing the blockbuster rivalry into turmoil.

Key details of the story include:

• The Injury Status: Leavitt’s designation as “doubtful” strongly suggests he is unlikely to play against No. 9 Ole Miss on Saturday in Oxford. The exact nature of the injury was not immediately detailed on the report.

• High Stakes and Kiffin’s Return: The game serves as the dramatic return of Lane Kiffin to Oxford after he departed Ole Miss to take over the LSU program at the end of the previous regular season. The transition carried immense hostility from Ole Miss fans, especially after Kiffin brought staff members and transfer talent along with him to Baton Rouge.

• Leavitt’s Role: Leavitt, who transferred in to serve as the centerpiece of Kiffin’s revamped LSU offense, led the No. 8 Tigers to a 2-0 start with victories over Clemson and Louisiana Tech. Through two games, he totaled 574 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, and five rushing scores.

• Impact on the Game: Losing Leavitt removes LSU’s primary playmaker in an already high-pressure, emotionally charged environment. Without him, LSU faces significant uncertainty under center against a top-10 rival eager to hand Kiffin a loss in his first SEC game back at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.