Ole Miss QB Austin Simmons Talks Hot Yoga With Lane Kiffin, Graduating College at 19, and Oxford’s Best Eats
At just 19 years old, Austin Simmons is already making waves in Oxford—not just on the football field, but in the classroom and community as well. The Ole Miss quarterback, who has drawn national attention for his early enrollment and maturity beyond his years, is now sharing more about his life off the field. From intense hot yoga sessions with head coach Lane Kiffin to finishing college before most students finish their sophomore year, Simmons is anything but ordinary.
Hot Yoga With Coach Kiffin?
Yes, it’s true. In a recent interview, Simmons revealed one of the more unique ways he’s bonded with Kiffin—through hot yoga. “Coach Kiffin’s always looking for ways to push our mental and physical limits,” Simmons said with a grin. “One day he asked if I’d ever tried hot yoga, and next thing you know, we’re both in a 105-degree studio stretching it out.”
While most might assume a football coach would prefer a weight room over a yoga mat, Simmons said the experience was eye-opening. “It’s humbling,” he admitted. “You think you’re in shape until you’re 30 minutes into downward dog and sweating like crazy. But it helps with flexibility, breathing, and staying focused—things that matter under center, too.”
College Graduate at 19
Beyond the football field, Simmons has taken an accelerated academic path that’s nothing short of astonishing. After dual-enrolling during high school and completing a hefty load of college courses, he managed to graduate with a bachelor’s degree before turning 20.
“It’s always been important to me to challenge myself in every area,” Simmons explained. “Football’s a huge part of my life, but I’ve never wanted to be defined by it alone. Graduating early gave me the freedom to focus more on football now, and possibly even start a master’s degree while still playing.”
Teammates and coaches alike have praised Simmons’ discipline and maturity, with Kiffin calling him “wise beyond his years” and “one of the hardest-working guys in the program.”
Oxford’s Best Food? Simmons Has Thoughts
Of course, no conversation about college life is complete without talking food—and Simmons, like any good Ole Miss student, has his favorites.
“Ajax Diner is hard to beat,” he said. “Their chicken-fried steak hits different after a long practice. And I’m a big fan of Big Bad Breakfast. It’s a weekend must.”
He also gave a nod to the local food truck scene and the campus dining options. “Honestly, Oxford is one of the best college towns when it comes to food. Whether you want something quick or a full sit-down meal, you’re never short on choices.”
Looking Ahead
As Simmons continues to develop under Kiffin’s tutelage, all signs point toward a bright future in Oxford. Whether he’s dissecting defenses, holding poses in a hot yoga studio, or diving into a plate of Southern comfort food, he’s clearly embracing the full college experience—just at a pace most people can’t even imagine.
“Everything I’m doing now is about becoming the best version of myself—on and off the field,” Simmons said. “And I’m loving every minute of it.”
