Simmons Claims Starting QB Role After Three Months
It only took about three months for transfer Austin Simmons to earn the role of Missouri’s starting quarterback.
Head coach Eli Drinkwitz admitted on KTRS 550 Radio in St. Louis Wednesday that he hadn’t expected to make the decision so early in the year.
The coach praised the depth of his quarterback room, noting rising sophomore Matt Zollers, senior transfer Nick Evers, freshman Gavin Sidwar, and Simmons as all talented options.
However, Simmons quickly stood out during spring practice, securing the starting job.
Spring Practice Highlights Leadership and Readiness
“After the last few practices, especially during two-minute drills and red zone situations, it became clear that Austin was our starter,” Drinkwitz explained.
With a roster featuring many new faces, naming the starter early would help the team rally around Simmons and allow his leadership to guide the group.
“I didn’t want to delay the decision. It was the right call for the team,” he added.
Experience and Past Performance Set Simmons Apart
Simmons, a redshirt junior who reclassified from the 2025 class to 2023, brings the most experience among Missouri’s six quarterbacks.
At Ole Miss, he completed nearly 60% of his passes for 1,026 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions in 17 games, including starts against Georgia and Kentucky, where he passed for 576 yards with three touchdowns and four interceptions.
Quarterback Room Responds Positively
While Simmons takes the reins, the other quarterbacks have responded well. Drinkwitz noted that Zollers remains a valued teammate and leader.
“It’s always tough to have those conversations with players, but they handled it well.
Matt is someone the team rallies around, and he’ll continue preparing himself to contribute,” Drinkwitz said.
Athleticism and Connection with Receivers
Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 215 pounds, Simmons is a dynamic athlete who also played baseball in high school as a left-handed pitcher.
Drinkwitz acknowledged that having a left-handed quarterback will require some offensive adjustments but expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt.
Simmons also reunites with former Ole Miss teammate Cayden Lee, and they aim to quickly build chemistry while Simmons develops connections with the rest of Missouri’s receiving corps over the coming months.
