News Summary
Ole Miss football, ranked No. 21, is poised for its season opener against Georgia State at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. With only four returning starters, the team faces a significant transition after last year’s successful 10-3 record. Defensive coordinator Pete Golding emphasizes the importance of developing new talent from the transfer portal and strengthening the defense, which had a record-setting performance last season. Despite key player departures, the Rebels are refining their skills and building chemistry heading into the game.
Oxford, Mississippi – Ole Miss football is gearing up for its season opener against Georgia State at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, with just over two weeks into fall practice. Sporting a ranking of No. 21, the Rebels finished last season with a record of 10-3. However, excitement is tempered as the team returns only four starters from its 2024 roster, highlighting a significant transition period amidst high expectations.
Defensive coordinator Pete Golding has spoken on the challenges and expectations for the defense, drawing attention to the record-setting 2024 season. That year, Ole Miss established program records for sacks with 52 and tackles-for-loss at 120. They averaged an impressive four sacks per game, which ranked them No. 1 nationally in that category.
This offseason has seen substantial changes for the Rebels, including the loss of key players to the NFL. Notable departures include Walter Nolen, Princely Umanmielen, and JJ Pegues, all of whom were drafted in 2025. Despite this, Golding remains hopeful about the incoming talent, noting their high football IQ and competitive nature.
To strengthen their roster, Ole Miss utilized the transfer portal effectively, bringing in two significant players: Da’Shawn Womack from LSU and Princewill Umanmielen from Nebraska. Womack, a former five-star recruit, is a formidable presence at 6-foot-5, 260 pounds, while Umanmielen is recognized as the No. 1 edge rusher in the transfer portal, standing at 6-foot-5, 245 pounds. Golding has opted to prioritize the development of returning players such as sophomores Kam Franklin and Will Echoles over adding more interior defensive linemen. Zxavian Harris, a returning 6-foot-8, 330-pound defensive tackle, is also expected to play a significant role this season.
Diving into practice, on August 14, players participated in drills wearing shorts and shoulder pads. Receiver Cayden Lee transitioned from a black jersey to a red jersey, indicating his active role in practice. Other prominent receivers, including Harrison Wallace III, Deuce Alexander, and Izaiah Hartrup, have been focusing on punt return drills as they prepare for the upcoming game.
Additions to the squad, such as Arkansas transfer Patrick Kutas, participated fully in practice, contributing to the team’s depth as they refine their skills. The Rebels are also working on a two-minute drill against their defense, an essential focus area as they inch closer to their opener.
In the running back department, Kewan Lacy has emerged as an impressive asset alongside Logan Diggs. Tight ends Trace Bruckler and Caleb Odom have also shown promising performances, excelling in both blocking and receiving drills. Safety TJ Banks, wearing a black jersey, is still recovering but appears to be in good spirits and is expected to make a full recovery.
A notable highlight during practice has been the emergence of true freshman cornerback Dante Core, who has consistently performed with the first-team defense. As the season opener quickly approaches, the Rebels are sharpening their skills and building team chemistry, ready to face Georgia State in what they hope will be a successful start to the season.
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss Football Defensive Line
- Sports Illustrated: Ole Miss Football Assistant Coach
- Roll Tide Wire: Alabama Football and Pete Golding
- Red Cup Rebellion: Ole Miss 2025 Football Schedule
- Hotty Toddy: Ole Miss Football Elite Status
- Wikipedia: Ole Miss Rebels Football
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