News Summary
As the Ole Miss Rebels gear up for the upcoming NCAA football season, defensive coordinator Pete Golding is determined to maintain the defense’s success from the prior year despite losing standout players. With key transfers and emerging leaders, the Rebels ranked No. 15 in the preseason coaches poll and are preparing for their first game against Georgia State. Fans have growing confidence in the team’s ability to build on its previous successes.
Oxford, Mississippi – Ole Miss Football Focuses on Defensive Success
As the Ole Miss Rebels prepare for the upcoming 2025 NCAA college football season, defensive coordinator Pete Golding is aiming to replicate the program’s recent defensive successes despite significant player departures. The Rebels are ranked No. 15 in the preseason coaches poll and will kick off their season against Georgia State on August 30, 2025.
In 2024, the Ole Miss defense showcased remarkable improvement, ranking second nationally by allowing just 14.4 points per game, the lowest score permitted since 1993. The Rebels led the nation with an impressive average of 4.0 sacks per game and recorded a program-high of 52 sacks alongside 120 tackles-for-loss. Golding’s leadership has played a key role in transforming the team’s defensive performance, with the unit rising from 56th to 34th in points allowed per game in 2023, averaging 22.1 points.
Key Departures and New Additions
The Rebels’ defense will see the departure of standout defensive linemen Walter Nolen and Princely Umanmielen, both of whom were drafted into the NFL. Nolen, notably, was selected as the No. 16 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Though their departures pose a challenge, Golding is committed to optimizing the talent of incoming players.
For the 2025 season, Ole Miss has secured key transfers, including edge rushers Da’Shawn Womack from LSU and Princewill Umanmielen from Nebraska. Golding revealed a preference for promoting young players from within the program rather than seeking experienced interior defensive linemen from the transfer portal. Returning players from last season such as sophomores Kam Franklin, Will Echoles, and Zxavian Harris are expected to play pivotal roles in the defense’s strategy moving forward.
Emerging Leadership and Talent Development
Junior linebacker TJ Dottery emerged as a team leader in 2024, accumulating 76 tackles and two sacks. In bolstering their linebacking corps, the Rebels have also recruited several transfer linebackers, including Jaden Yates from Marshall and Tahj Chambers from Missouri State. Chambers, in particular, has made significant adjustments as he increased his weight from 215 lbs to 235 lbs, demonstrating his commitment to adapt to the demands of the program.
Confidence in Future Performance
Golding is focused on tailoring his defensive strategy to maximize the potential of the new roster. There is growing confidence among fans and analysts regarding the prospects of the Ole Miss football program, bolstered by an increasingly solid defense and the successful integration of new recruits.
With a strong underlying foundation and a commitment to developing young talent, Ole Miss is poised to make an impact in the upcoming season, building on their recent success while preparing to face formidable opponents like Georgia State. The Rebels’ 2025 campaign will be a test of their depth and resilience as they continue to strive for excellence on the field.
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss Football Defensive Line Insights
- Hotty Toddy: Ole Miss Rebels Elite Status
- The Rebel Walk: Ole Miss Football Practice Report
- Sports Illustrated: Ole Miss Football Assistant Coach Contract
- Wikipedia: Ole Miss Rebels Football
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
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