Lane Kiffin talks quarterbacks, running backs during spring game
As the Red team continues to dominate the Navy team in the second quarter of Ole Miss’ spring game, the ESPN+ broadcast crew continues to roam the sideline while talking with the coaching staff. During an interview with head coach Lane Kiffin on the field, several topics came up, including quarterbacks and running backs.
During his second interview of the day, Lane Kiffin spoke abut the quarterback battle, making it clear which of the two players impressed him more in the first half.
“Jaxson (Dart) is trying to win the battle every play and forcing the ball as you can see,” said Kiffin. “And Luke (Altmyer)’s being patient and playing within the offense and playing better as you can see. … That penalty should’ve been on him, not the other way. I’m sure that’s his frustration for forcing the ball into double coverage. He’s competitive, he’s frustrated.”
The penalty Kiffin referenced came on a play where Dart threw an interception and decided to run down field to make a hit, despite his white non-contact jersey. The play also brought another viral moment as a sideline coach nearly got ejected for his argument against the call.
Kiffin could not hold back from the opportunity to joke about senior analyst Michael Nysewander.
“I’m just in awe of Nysewander trying to be Gene Stallings,” said Kiffin. “He had to get attention to get on camera, we raised him that way. You can see that even though Saban trained him, and he played for Saban, he is not following that model. He’s giving the other team bulletin board material.”
Lane Kiffin on running backs
Among the running back group on the field Saturday afternoon, Lane Kiffin believes freshman Quinshon Judkins can become something special in the future.
It’s been great,” said Kiffin. “Q has looked really good for a freshman, I mean he’s basically still a senior in high school so it’s been good. … He looks a little bit more like Trent Richardson there than Derrick (Henry), because Derrick is longer and taller,” said Kiffin. “This kid’s going to be a good player. We have high hopes. I think [Richardson] was like the third pick in the draft or something.”
Judkins came to Ole Miss as a three-star recruit from Alabama, but already looks game ready as he continues his dominance against the defense. He also ranked No. 490 overall in the country, according to the On3 Consensus, and was listed as the No. 35 running back in the class of 2022.