Missouri names Austin Simmons as 2026 QB starter

Missouri announced Ole Miss transfer Austin Simmons will be the starting quarterback for the 2026 season after winning the spring battle, with two years of eligibility remaining. Simmons, who began 2025 as Ole Miss’ starter before an ankle injury, separated himself from Nick Zollers in spring practice and earned the nod heading into summer. The Tigers open the 2026 schedule Sept. 5 vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff, visit Kansas in Week 2, and start SEC play at Mississippi State on Sept. 26.