Peter Burns Believes Austin Simmons Could Be the Next SEC Star

OXFORD, Miss. — As Rebel fans eagerly await the debut of quarterback Austin Simmons as the starter for Ole Miss football, the talented young signal-caller is starting to generate buzz across the Southeastern Conference. After appearing last week at SEC Media Days in Atlanta, Simmons left a strong impression—not just with his words, but with his poise.

Among those taking notice was ESPN/SEC Network host and analyst Peter Burns, who spoke highly of Simmons during a recent episode of “That SEC Podcast.” Burns, who’s known for his thoughtful and candid takes, believes Simmons might be on the cusp of stardom.

Who will be the next breakout star at QB in the SEC?@PeterBurnsESPN says to keep an eye on Austin Simmons:

“19 years old, reminds me of talking with Tua (Tagovailoa).”

Full chat: https://t.co/odTh8mmcbn pic.twitter.com/PjDNGDSe8c

— SEC Mike (@MichaelWBratton) July 24, 2025

“So that’s why I think the parity level is so interesting this this year,” Burns began. “All week long (at SEC Media Days), we get a chance to talk to all the players, all the coaches and the number one that so far at this point at this juncture of media days that I’ve just been wowed by, was Austin Simmons over at Ole Miss and (he’s just) 19 years old. Reminds me exactly like when I would talk to (former Alabama star QB) Tua (Tagovailoa), just cool, calm, collected.”

Peter Burns on Austin Simmons

That comparison to one of college football’s most legendary quarterbacks is no small compliment. For Burns, it wasn’t just what Simmons said—it was how he carried himself.

Burns also reflected on Simmons’ in-game performance last season when the true freshman was unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight in the Georgia game.

“And I know when Lane and that Ole Miss Georgia game, I think you guys remember it, Ole Miss was trying to hold off Georgia. They’re playing well, and all of a sudden Jaxson Dart goes down and I’m like, ‘oh boy, here comes 18 year old Austin Simmons. They’re going to just hand the ball off.’ And I mean here comes Georgia. But (Simmons) threw the ball 6 times, and it was six darts against Georgia’s defense.”

Peter Burns

That moment, a late-season test against the defending national champions, stood out. The Rebels defeated Georgia and Simmons’ confidence and command in a pressure-packed scenario made an impression.

Burns shared a behind-the-scenes anecdote from SEC Media Days when he spoke directly to Simmons about that very moment.

“I go, whoa. I mean, did you think coach was going to just hand it off or whatever? And he goes, cool, calm, ‘No, Lane pulled me to the side, put me into the huddle, and he goes, ‘we’re going to run the playbook. You’re good.’ Austin goes, ‘yeah, we’re good.’ Like, that’s some serial killer stuff, dude.”

Peter Burns

That trademark Lane Kiffin confidence—combined with Simmons’ unshakable demeanor—bodes quite well for the Rebels’ offense in 2025.

While Burns noted there may be some challenges on the defensive side of the ball this season, he believes Ole Miss is well-positioned for success with Simmons under center.

“I think they take a step back this year, defensively,” Burns explained. “They just don’t have the front. But if he’s able to stay there for two years and Lane does, as well, which I think he’s starting to settle down in Oxford, I think sky’s the limit for that squad.”

Simmons, who graduated high school in just three years and arrived in Oxford as a 17-year-old, has already been impressing coaches and teammates with his leadership and football IQ. Now, with the offense in his hands, expectations are building in Oxford.

If Simmons’ early trajectory is any indication, it may not be long before he’s no longer a breakout candidate—but an SEC household name.

Next Up

Ole Miss kicks off the 2025 season on Saturday, August 30, hosting Georgia State at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6:45 p.m. CT.