Ole Miss QB Austin Simmons Targets SEC Rival in Portal

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Austin Simmons' Journey and Future Plans

Austin Simmons, a former starting quarterback for Ole Miss, is set to enter the transfer portal with a no-contact tag, according to recent reports. This decision comes after Simmons lost his position as the team's starter due to an injury. Despite this change, he has expressed his intention to remain with the Rebels during their College Football Playoff run.

Ole Miss has made a strong statement in the postseason by defeating Georgia in a thrilling 39-34 victory at the Sugar Bowl. This win secured their place in the national championship conversation. The No. 6 seed has now upset its third-seeded rivals, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Simmons had a promising start to the season, leading the Rebels in their opening game against Georgia State. In that match, he threw for 341 yards and three touchdowns in a dominant 63-7 win. However, his performance took a turn the following week when he faced Kentucky. During that game, Simmons threw two interceptions and suffered an injury to his left ankle in a close 30-23 victory.

Following this setback, Trinidad Chambliss stepped in as the starting quarterback and has since become a key player for the team. Chambliss, who transferred from Division II Ferris State, has performed exceptionally well this season. He has accumulated 3,660 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and just three interceptions while also adding 520 rushing yards and eight scores on the ground. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the top eight of Heisman Trophy voting.

For Simmons, his time at Ole Miss has been marked by both challenges and opportunities. Over the course of the 2024-25 season, he has appeared in 17 games, throwing for 1,026 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions. Additionally, Simmons played baseball for the Rebels early in his college career, highlighting his versatility as an athlete.

The coaching landscape at Ole Miss has also seen some changes. The coach who recruited Simmons to the program, Lane Kiffin, left after the regular season to take over at LSU. This shift in leadership may have influenced Simmons' decision to explore new opportunities.

Missouri, a SEC rival of Ole Miss, is reportedly considering Simmons as a potential recruit. The Tigers lost their starting quarterback, Beau Pribula, to the transfer portal, which could create an opening for Simmons to return as a starter. This move could be a significant step in his career, allowing him to regain his footing and showcase his talents on a new team.

As the college football season continues, the focus remains on the exciting developments within the sport. With teams competing for the national championship, the journey of players like Simmons serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the game and the resilience required to succeed. Whether he stays with Ole Miss or moves on to a new opportunity, Simmons' story is one that will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.