Ole Miss quarterback Walker Howard prepares like he is the starter every game

Former five-star quarterback Walker Howard transferred to Ole Miss from LSU in January 2023. After redshirting his freshman season, Howard decided that despite the Tigers being his home team, some new scenery was needed, with Oxford being the perfect spot.

Heading into his second season with the Rebels, Howard has sat behind starting quarterback Jaxson Dart since transferring, learning, and being part of a bond between him and the team. You never know when your number will be called upon, and Howard knows that, so he stays prepared.

Speaking to Ole Miss defensive end Jared Ivey on his YouTube show, The Ivey League, Walker talked about what goes through his mind as the number two quarterback.

""You got to prepare like you're the starter, every game, no excuses. That's one thing I really enjoy: the preparation of the week. One play goes down (injury), but I'm still on this team, I'm still part of it, and I want to have my brothers back. I'm going to be ready for the next play.""

- Walker Howard on The Ivey League Show

Howard said he still prepares like a leader, making sure the team knows we are still in a good spot. That's the talk of a starter, with Howard waiting patiently for an opportunity to lead the team, which may come this season or in 2025.

Ole Miss wasn't an option until the team reached out

Before deciding to transfer to Ole Miss, Walker Howard wasn't even considering transferring to the Rebels, with his sights set on TCU. However, a phone call from Ole Miss and a trip to Oxford had Howard sold.

Walker said talking to the coaches about the system was one of the main reasons for his decision to commit to Ole Miss. Howard said he had seen the system in effect, but once he understood it, he knew this was where he wanted to be to help his success in the sport.

He also fell in love with Oxford as soon as he came to visit, which only lasted several hours. A day later, he decided that Ole Miss would be the place to propel his game.