Austin Simmons is officially locked in for Missouri’s 2027 season, and that, my friends, is HUGE for the Tigers. This isn’t just a re-sign; this is stability at the most critical spot on the field, setting up what could be an absolute game-changer of an offseason as they hit the portal. With Simmons back, Missouri is looking to build a legit winning roster around their star, and the expectations for 2027 are about to go through the roof.
From Transfer Portal Gem to CFP Contender
Remember when Simmons started the 2025 season as the starter at Ole Miss, only to lose his job to Trinidad Chambliss? Rough, right? But he transferred to Missouri in the offseason, and let me tell you, it’s been an excellent fit. Through eight games this season, Simmons has transformed into a certified play-maker, leading the Tigers right into the mix for a College Football Playoff spot. He’s completing 63.3% of his passes, slinging for 1,952 yards, dropping 16 touchdowns, and only throwing two picks. Those are *numbers*, folks! It doesn’t hurt that he’s got some serious firepower around him either. Cayden Lee and Donovan Olugbode are two of the top eight receivers in the SEC, no big deal. That trio has the aerial attack humming, ranking fourth in the conference with 257.1 passing yards per game and 26th nationally in EPA per dropback at 0.19. This passing game is the engine of their offense, and with Simmons staying put, that’s not changing in 2027.
The Blueprint for a Dominant 2027 Attack
With Simmons’ contract sorted, Missouri can now get serious about portal season and building a force for next fall. Locking down your presumably most expensive player gives the team some much needed cost certainty. Top priority? Those wide receivers. Donovan Olugbode is only a sophomore, putting up 584 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, and he’s got to stay in Columbia. Cayden Lee, on the other hand, is a senior and leads the SEC in receiving yards. If he decides to use that fifth year of eligibility instead of chasing NFL dreams, you know other teams will be coming hard. He’d be expensive, but based on what he’s done with Simmons, he’d be absolutely worth it. The running back situation is similar. Jamal Roberts leads the SEC with 1,005 rushing yards and could jump to the NFL. Ahmad Hardy also might, but he’s looking to prove to scouts he’s fully healed from his gunshot wound earlier this year. If they can keep at least one of those guys, the 2027 offense is looking solid. Where they’ll need to hit the portal hard, though, is on the offensive line. They’ve got several fifth-year seniors on the interior, so some fresh blood will be key to protecting Simmons.
With Simmons leading the charge and a clear plan to build around him, Missouri is set to be a true force next fall. The groundwork is laid, now let’s see them get those ducks in a row and deliver on that 2027 promise!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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