Why Walker Howard’s transfer destination irks LSU fans

LSU fans were among the many to learn of Walker Howard’s commitment to Ole Miss on Wednesday. Such an announcement undoubtedly confuses most Bayou Bengals fans, if not generating moderate aggravation.

It is fair to assume that Walker anticipated battling with Garrett Nussmeier for the Tigers starting quarterback gig in 2023. However, Nussmeier shined in the 2nd half against Georgia, and Jayden Daniels announced he would return for a senior year. Walker likely realized no path to the top of LSU’s depth chart. It’s also fair to assume the former 4-star recruit prefers to play sooner than later. Both assumptions make Walker’s decision to transfer to Ole Miss puzzling.

the potential for Walker to work his way off the Ole Miss sidelines appears bleak

Walker joins an Ole Miss roster that features returning starter Jaxson Dart. Dart threw for nearly 3,000 yards and ran for another 614 this past season. There is a chance Dart plays out 2023 in Oxford before heading to the NFL. Dart might also choose a longer collegiate tenure. Either way, the potential for Walker to work his way off the Ole Miss sidelines appears bleak. Then again, the Rebels lost Luke Altmyer to the transfer portal, thus creating a path of less resistance for Dart’s successor. Such begs the question, does Howard want to battle his way or seek the easier path?

Howard tweeted that he was leaving LSU for the transfer portal on Monday. The Redshirt Freshman did not explain other than say he was seeking “the best spot for [him] to grow.” Interpretations of such may vary, but several LSU fans speculated Walker’s transfer was imminent following the SEC Championship Game.

Of course, this past season, Walker Howard was on LSU’s sideline when the Tigers crushed Ole Miss 45-20. LSU will see Howard next when they travel to Oxford on September 30. Even more interesting is the potential for a Howard vs. Nussmeier matchup in Baton Rouge come 2024.