It looks like Austin Simmons' status could be determined at the last minute.
Simmons was able to finish last week's win against Kentucky despite being slowed with an ankle injury, but he wasn't listed on the injury report yesterday despite reports from On3/Rivals writer Chris Low that he was still trying to work through the injury.
Now recent reports have backup Trinidad Chambliss expected to start tonight against Arkansas.
NEW: Ferris State transfer Trinidad Chambliss is expected to start at QB for Ole Miss against Arkansas, @SpiritBen reports🦈
— On3 (@On3sports) September 13, 2025
Austin Simmons suffered an ankle injury in the Rebels’ 30-23 win at Kentucky last week.https://t.co/xcNqq9T7W0 pic.twitter.com/Dkg6ezZdTd
​Simmons didn't play up the injury in his post-game comments last Saturday, telling reporters that there was just a minor injury.
"I'm fine. I'm good. I went back out there, you know, for the last play of the game. I'm good," Simmons said. "It was just a minor little injury, you know?"
And with Simmons not on the injury report, the assumption was that he was in line to start today. But now the reports of him being a game-time decision have brought questions about Lane Kiffin's integrity in failing to report Simmons' status.
I wonder if Lane Kiffin is facing a fine if Austin Simmons doesn't play.
— SEC Mike (@MichaelWBratton) September 13, 2025
Simmons was not listed on the most recent Ole Miss injury reports https://t.co/AGNyp0o3e8
Who is Trinidad Chambliss?
If the reports on Simmons are accurate, Chambliss will be thrust into the lineup. Chambliss transferred to Ole Miss from Division II Ferris State, where he led the Bulldogs to their third national championship, a 49-14 waxing of Valdosta State.
Trinidad's numbers at Ferris State were very impressive. He threw for 2,901 yards and rushed for another 1,019 yards while accounting for 51 total touchdowns. Trinidad tossed three touchdowns and rushed for another one in the championship game.Â
He was able to get some mop-up work in the opener against Georgia State, going 4-of-6 passing for 59 yards and a touchdown. During his pre-camp press conference, Trinidad hoped to lend his championship experience to the Rebels in their quest to win the SEC and make the playoffs.
"I know Ole Miss has been chasing the national title for years and an SEC title for years. They brought me on board to be the best person and player that I can be," he said. "I'm just going to put my best foot forward in whatever role that is, to help this team win. And I'll do whatever it takes for this team to win."