News Summary
The University of Mississippi football team, ranked No. 21, began their season with an impressive 63-7 victory over Georgia State. Quarterback Austin Simmons showcased his abilities by throwing for three touchdowns. The Rebels displayed both offensive and defensive strength, marking head coach Lane Kiffin’s sixth season with optimism as they aim for another successful year.
Oxford, Mississippi – In a commanding display, the University of Mississippi football team, ranked No. 21, opened their season with a resounding 63-7 victory over Georgia State on August 30 at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The game showcased the Rebels’ offensive strength and solid defensive performance as they began their quest for a successful season.
In his debut as the starting quarterback, Austin Simmons completed 20 of 31 passes, amassing 341 yards and throwing for three touchdowns. Despite his strong performance, Simmons also recorded two interceptions, adding a layer of complexity to his first game under center. He replaces Jaxson Dart, who was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the New York Giants after an impressive tenure that included multiple school records.
The game set a positive tone for Lane Kiffin in his sixth season as head coach, marking a significant milestone for the program that has now won 24 of its last 29 season openers. The Rebels wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, executing a quick three-play, 65-yard drive that resulted in a touchdown within just 48 seconds.
The Ole Miss defense was relentless, holding Georgia State to only two successful conversions on 15 attempts during third downs. This defensive strength significantly contributed to the team’s ability to control the game right from the start.
Leading the rushing attack was Kewan Lacy, a Missouri transfer who was exceptional with 108 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 16 carries. His scoring included a notable 43-yard rushing touchdown, illustrating his ability to break through the opposition’s defense. Furthermore, running back Logan Diggs also contributed to the point tally with a five-yard rushing touchdown.
After Simmons exited, Trinidad Chambliss stepped in at quarterback and led another touchdown drive, ensuring the Rebels maintained their dominating momentum throughout the game. Following Georgia State’s sole touchdown, the Rebels responded with 32 unanswered points, affirming their dominance.
The Rebels’ scoring spree included a 26-yard touchdown pass to Harrison Wallace, occurring with 13:31 left in the game, and successful field goal attempts by kicker Lucas Carneiro from distances of 42 and 33 yards. Georgia State’s only point production came from a 43-yard pass from quarterback Christian Veilleux to receiver Javon Robinson.
As Ole Miss wrapped up their scoring with a final touchdown six minutes and thirty-eight seconds left in the game, the dominant performance highlighted the Rebels’ potential as they strive for their fourth season with ten or more wins in the past five seasons under Kiffin’s leadership.
In the pregame, the Ole Miss community honored the memory of Corey Adams, a freshman defensive lineman tragically killed in a shooting on July 19, marking the day with a somber remembrance amid the fanfare of the season opener.
Although Ole Miss emerged victorious, reports indicate that there may be concerns regarding the health of the team, as they currently do not have an injury report available, with many players on the offensive line dealing with physical challenges.
As the Rebels look to build on this impressive season opener, fans remain hopeful for what the rest of the season will bring.
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Additional Resources
- College Football News: Ole Miss vs. Georgia State Preview
- Clarion Ledger: Live Updates on Ole Miss vs. Georgia State
- Red Cup Rebellion: Ole Miss Crushes Georgia State
- Wikipedia: Ole Miss Rebels Football
- Google News: Ole Miss Football
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