Ole Miss Names Austin Simmons Starting Quarterback for 2024 Season

Austin Simmons is set to make his debut as the starting quarterback for Ole Miss in the 2025 season opener against Georgia State, stepping into the role after two years behind former starter Jaxson Dart. At just 19, Simmons has shown maturity beyond his years, having already earned a degree from Ole Miss and gaining praise from head coach Lane Kiffin for his hard work, football IQ, and ball security. Simmons has embraced the challenges and pressures of being a starter, focusing on handling media attention and external expectations while emphasizing the importance of taking care of the football. Despite his youth, Simmons is confident in his ability to dominate on the field and is supported by a strong offensive lineup, including close receiver Cayden Lee and several transfer players brought in through the portal. Kiffin has highlighted Simmons’ preparation and mentorship under Dart, and Ole Miss enters the season ranked in the AP Top 25 for the fifth consecutive year. Simmons plans to keep his personal life lowkey but is ready to face the excitement of playing in front of passionate home crowds at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.