Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss Receive Scathing Critiques From Anonymous SEC Coaches

“The first program in the league that went all-in on portal players to take them to a playoff bid went bust," he said. "Now what? Simmons is talented but unpolished, and it’s going to take some time to develop him.”

Simmons flashed ability at times as a redshirt freshman last season. Most notably, he filled in for an injured Dart and led a touchdown drive against Georgia, leading to one of the biggest wins in program history. 

Putting the weight of the offense on his shoulders and leading Ole Miss to a postseason berth is another challenge. 

Consistency has been difficult to find, even with Dart pacing the SEC in passing last season. Ole Miss had a playoff berth seemingly locked down before the 24-17 loss to Florida on the road thwarted those hopes.

“They’re one of the best programs in the country at evaluating the portal, and they’ve done a very good job integrating that talent and winning right away, but this is still an inconsistent program," an SEC coach said. "The loss at Florida last year is an example of why Kiffin isn’t considered an elite coach.”

Another coach spoke highly of the defense and the potential for Simmons to develop into a dependable starter. However, the overhauled roster isn't expected to compete with the top SEC powers. 

“They could be just as talented on defense and maybe bring Simmons along quickly, but they’re still a step removed from the top-end programs," the coach said. "With the level of competition in this league, it’s hard to see a roster like this one immediately come in and secure a playoff bid.”

Kiffin and Co. have a favorable schedule that doesn't include Texas or Alabama. The slate includes home matchups against Arkansas, LSU, South Carolina and Florida with road trips to Kentucky, Georgia, Oklahoma and Mississippi State.

The Rebels will open the season at home against Georgia State on Aug. 30.