News Summary
Ole Miss showcased their dominance with a resounding 63-7 victory over Georgia State. Quarterback Austin Simmons and running back Kewan Lacy led the charge. Despite some challenges on the offensive line, the Rebels displayed a powerful offense and solid defense, setting the tone for an ambitious season ahead.
Oxford, MS – Ole Miss, ranked No. 21 in the AP poll, launched their 2025 college football season with a commanding 63-7 victory over Georgia State on August 30, 2025. The Rebels showcased a powerful offense and an effective defense, leaving little doubt about their strength heading into the season.
Quarterback Austin Simmons delivered a stellar performance, going 20 for 31 in passing, accruing a total of 341 yards and throwing three touchdowns. In contrast to Georgia State’s offense, the Rebels amassed a total of 400 passing yards and 295 rushing yards, demonstrating their versatility and depth. Notably, running back Kewan Lacy had a standout game, rushing for 108 yards and scoring three touchdowns on just 16 carries, effectively fueling the Rebels’ scoring efforts.
The game kicked off with some pregame drama, as Ole Miss defensive end Da’Shawn Womack was involved in an incident with Georgia State defensive back Tyler Scott. Scott reportedly ripped a chain off Womack’s neck and provocatively taunted him with it before tossing it into the stands. Despite this altercation, Womack, who had a strong defensive showing with six tackles including one for loss, chose not to pursue legal action or press any charges against Scott, who ultimately did not participate in the game.
Despite Ole Miss’s overwhelming victory, head coach Lane Kiffin acknowledged that the team’s offensive line faced challenges, receiving criticism for inconsistencies during the game. While the Rebels allowed only one sack, Simmons experienced persistent pressure from Georgia State, leading to a missed connection and an interception driven by a key play from the Panthers’ Henry Bryant.
The victory marks not only a triumph for Ole Miss in their season opener but also sets the stage for their upcoming game against Kentucky on September 6, 2025, which will be their Southeastern Conference (SEC) opener. However, questions have been raised about the offensive line’s stability due to injuries affecting various players during fall camp. The coaches and fans alike will be keeping a keen eye on player performance and health as the season unfolds.
The game against Georgia State also provided an opportunity for Ole Miss to build momentum heading into their next matchup. With the Rebels showcasing a high-powered offense and a functional defense, they appear primed for a competitive season ahead, though it remains clear that improvements in specific areas, particularly the offensive line, will be essential for sustained success.
As the Rebels reflect on this decisive win, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of team cohesion and resilience both on and off the field. With a strong kickoff to the season, they will need to maintain focus and work through any barriers as they prepare for their formidable SEC schedule.
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss Football Incident
- Clarion Ledger: Lane Kiffin’s Offense Review
- 247 Sports: Snap Count Analysis
- Outkick: Ole Miss Football Lineman Incident
- SI: Lane Kiffin’s Daughter’s Game Day Fashion
- Wikipedia: Ole Miss Rebels Football
- Google Search: Ole Miss football
- Google Scholar: Ole Miss football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ole Miss Rebels
- Google News: Ole Miss football
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