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WATCH: Sam Leavitt's Tuesday Media Availability

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, September 9th 2025 at 17:08 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Podcast Recap: ASU Sun Devils, Sam Leavitt, Texas State, and Jaren Hamilton

In a recent video‑podcast posted on the Arizona State Sports channel, former Sun Devil defensive tackle Sam Leavitt sits down with Texas State’s standout lineman Jaren Hamilton to discuss the highly anticipated matchup between the Sun Devils and the Red Hawks. The episode is a mix of nostalgia, inside baseball, and practical game‑prep tips that both fans and analysts found insightful.

Who is Sam Leavitt?

Sam Leavitt was a cornerstone of the Sun Devil defense from 2015 to 2018. A native of Mesa, Arizona, Leavitt earned First‑team All‑Pac‑12 honors in 2017 and 2018, and was a key contributor on the 2016 Sun Devil team that made it to the College Football Play‑off. After a brief stint in the NFL and a short comeback in the CFL, Leavitt retired in 2021. He was widely respected for his work ethic, leadership, and, notably, his commitment to community service in the Phoenix area.

In the podcast, Leavitt speaks candidly about his post‑college life, including his current work as a high‑school football coach in Tucson and his passion for player development. He also reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave at ASU, and the role that the Sun Devils’ culture of “winning with heart” has played in shaping his own life.

“We weren’t just a team, we were a family,” Leavitt says. “I’m proud of the work we did, and I know the next generation will build on that.”

Leavitt’s own story is woven through the conversation, giving the episode a personal touch that goes beyond simple play‑calling or statistics. For more about his career, viewers can check out the [ Sun Devils’ Hall of Fame page ].

Jaren Hamilton: A Texas State Force

The other key player on the show is Jaren Hamilton, a defensive tackle for Texas State in the 2023 season. Hamilton, 6‑1, 315 pounds, was named Second‑team All‑Conference by the Associated Press after a stellar campaign that featured 13 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and a pivotal role in a 6‑5 record season. He has been praised by head coach Jake Headrick for his “intensity and leadership on the defensive line.” For deeper insights into Hamilton’s season, fans can visit his Texas State profile at [ Texas State Athletics ].

During the podcast, Hamilton explains the importance of line discipline, footwork, and how he approaches each opponent. He also describes his own experience playing against ASU in a prior matchup, noting the difficulty of handling Sun Devil receivers and the need for constant adjustment.

Game Analysis: Sun Devils vs. Red Hawks

Both Leavitt and Hamilton break down the strategic aspects of the upcoming game. They touch on the Sun Devils’ offense—led by quarterback Zach Hughes—and the way Texas State plans to shut down the passing game with a hybrid defensive front. Leavitt stresses that the key to beating a high‑powered line is “speed on the edge and disciplined coverage,” while Hamilton points to the importance of gap integrity and tackling technique.

Leavitt also highlights the significance of the rivalry: the Sun Devils and Texas State have played 12 times, with ASU leading 9–3. “The last time we played, it was a nail‑biter that went into overtime,” he says. “We’ll need to come into this game with confidence and focus.”

Community and College Experience

The conversation also touches on broader topics like community outreach, player mentorship, and the college‑football experience. Leavitt talks about his own time working with younger athletes, and how that mentorship has translated into his coaching. Hamilton speaks about his own experience navigating life in college, balancing academics with the demands of a high‑level football program.

Both participants echo a central theme that seems to run through the episode: the importance of character development alongside athletic prowess. Leavitt reminds listeners that “football is a mirror of life. It’s about learning resilience, teamwork, and integrity.” Hamilton echoes that sentiment, emphasizing that the lessons learned on the field are applicable off the field.

Take‑Away Messages

1. Preparation is Key – Both Leavitt and Hamilton emphasize the importance of studying film, practicing fundamentals, and maintaining discipline on the field.
2. Leadership Matters – Whether as a former player or a current lineman, leadership is a constant in the conversation, and the speakers agree that a team’s cohesion can decide the outcome of a tight game.
3. Heart Wins Games – Leavitt’s mantra that “winning with heart” is the core of ASU football is reiterated throughout, and it’s a principle that applies to Texas State as well.

Final Thoughts

This podcast episode is a thoughtful and engaging exploration of a game that carries both on‑field significance and cultural weight. By bringing together a former Sun Devil legend and a current Texas State star, the video underscores the enduring connections between past and present, and between player, coach, and community.

The full episode is available on the ASU Sports channel, and viewers can also catch the post‑game recap and analysis on the College Sports website for the latest stats and reactions.