Austin Simmons was only on the field for four plays in Ole Miss' 41-35 win over Arkansas on Saturday, but those plays may keep the Rebels starting quarterback off the field for an extended period of time.
Coach Lane Kiffin said that Simmons likely aggravated the left ankle injury that kept him from starting the game. Simmons entered the game during an Ole Miss possession in the red zone when Trinidad Chambliss left with a bloody hand. He completed the drive with a four-yard touchdown pass that gave Ole Miss a 28-21 lead in the second quarter.
Austin Simmons and Ole Miss lead Arkansas 31-28 at HT. This TD went to Wallace. pic.twitter.com/5uO5E4U8hi
— Sports Daily Media Network (@sportsdailymed) September 14, 2025
After the play, Simmons was seen on the sideline struggling to put any weight on his ankle. Kiffin said during his post-game press conference that Simmons possibly made the injury worse.
"Austin came in and made a huge touchdown. Unfortunately, I think, you know, he hurt himself on that drive," Kiffin said. "But I'm really proud of Austin for going in there and making a big play in that situation."
Simmons was not listed on the injury report, which could leave Kiffin open for disciplinary action. But he was available to play and when Chambliss had to be removed from the game, Simmons stepped in.
During Simmons' short stint on the field, he handed the ball to Kyren Lacy twice, but on third down, he checked into a quarterback run and gained eight yards on the play to give Ole Miss a first-and-goal. Kiffin seemed to hint that this is where the injury may have occurred.
"Obviously, Austin was available to play, just like the report...and he played. Just a lot went into it, you know, taking a lot of information in making that decision really late," Kiffin said. "Then he came in and had to check to a run on a play, he made the big first down, and I think he re-aggravated it."
If Simmons can't go this Saturday against Tulane, it will likely be Chambliss making his second straight start. The transfer from Division II Ferris State was incredible Saturday, accounting for 415 yards of total offense (353 passing, 62 rushing) and three total touchdowns.