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Can Sam Leavitt outshine Arch Manning in high-stakes Peach Bowl?

ASU's QB looks to upset Texas, while Sarkisian hints at unleashing Manning

Peach Bowl Showdown: Sam Leavitt vs. Texas and the Arch Manning Factor
Peach Bowl Showdown: Sam Leavitt vs. Texas and the Arch Manning Factor(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)LAPRESSE

College football fans, buckle up. The stage is set for an epic showdown at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, where Arizona State's fearless quarterback Sam Leavitt faces the daunting challenge of Texas and its mastermind coach, Steve Sarkisian. It's a collision of underdog grit and powerhouse finesse, with whispers of Arch Manning potentially entering the fray adding an extra layer of intrigue.

Leavitt, the Sun Devils' redshirt freshman sensation, has been vocal leading up to the matchup, exuding the confidence of a seasoned veteran. "People keep counting me out since day one,"Leavitt declared, vowing to prove his doubters wrong. But as he readies himself for a high-stakes duel with Texas QB Quinn Ewers, the looming presence of Sarkisian and his secret weapon-Arch Manning-casts a long shadow over his masterplan.

Texas Longhorns quarterbacks Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers go head to head in a throwing football drill

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Sarkisian, known for his bold play-calling and meticulous preparation, isn't leaving anything to chance. While Ewers has been the reliable leader for Texas this season, throwing for 2,867 yards and 26 touchdowns, Sark has the luxury of turning to Manning if the game demands a spark. The freshman phenom, part of the legendary Manning dynasty, has been largely kept under wraps this season, but the Peach Bowl might just be the moment for his grand unveiling.

Texas' offense has been a juggernaut, averaging over 35 points per game and ranking 8th nationally in total yardage. Their ability to overwhelm defenses has been a hallmark of their success, and against a solid-but-beatable Sun Devils defense, the Longhorns have every tool to spoil Leavitt's plans. With Manning waiting in the wings, Sarkisian holds a trump card that could dismantle ASU's upset dreams.

Can Sam Leavitt's underdog story take down Texas' Peach Bowl powerhouse?

Leavitt, however, isn't backing down. His journey from overlooked high school recruit to leading ASU's 11-2 season is a testament to his resilience. "I've always been underlooked,"he said."Now, I'm here, ready to prove I belong." But against a Texas defense that's allowing just 11.5 points per game, he'll need a flawless performance.

For ASU to pull off the upset, Leavitt must avoid turnovers, and his offensive line must protect him from Texas' ferocious rush. Meanwhile, the Longhorns will look to exploit every opportunity, knowing Sarkisian's chess moves could change the game in an instant.

This game isn't just about stats-it's a clash of narratives. Can the scrappy Leavitt shock the world, or will Sarkisian's Texas remind everyone why they're perennial contenders? Either way, the Peach Bowl promises drama, fireworks, and the potential for a storybook ending-or a crushing reality check.

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