News Summary
The Ole Miss Rebels have commenced their fall camp as they prepare for the college football season. With high expectations, the team looks to bounce back after a disappointing previous season, having lost key players to the NFL Draft, including standout quarterback Jaxson Dart. The new season will open against Georgia State, and head coach Lane Kiffin emphasizes a focus on rebuilding the team. With only four starters returning, development and team dynamics will be crucial for their success in an upcoming competitive schedule.
Oxford, Mississippi – The Ole Miss Rebels kicked off their fall camp on July 29, 2025, as they prepare for the upcoming college football season. The team is set to open its season against Georgia State on August 30, with high hopes of continuing a recent trend of success.
Under head coach Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss is coming off its third 10-win season in four years, a noteworthy achievement in the competitive world of college football. The Rebels achieved a total of 21 wins over the past two seasons. However, this year’s camp feels quieter, as the team looks to rebuild after a season in which they failed to qualify for the College Football Playoffs despite optimistic projections.
Significantly, Ole Miss faced a substantial roster change heading into the 2025 season, losing eight players to the NFL Draft, a record for the program. Among those drafted was quarterback Jaxson Dart, who is recognized as the all-time leader in total offense and passing yards for Ole Miss and was selected in the first round by the New York Giants. In contrast, the Rebels return merely four starters from last year’s squad, accentuating the need for development and adjustment.
Kiffin remarked that a lack of pre-season rankings in the top 10 might actually benefit the team this year, as it allows for a focus on rebuilding rather than the pressure of expectations. To address the significant turnover, Kiffin has effectively utilized the transfer portal, bringing in players who have had demonstrated success in their previous programs.
As the camp progresses, redshirt sophomore quarterback Austin Simmons has been named the replacement for Dart. Simmons is expected to lead the Rebels into the new season and has been supported by his teammates, including tight end Dae’Quan Wright, who has expressed confidence in his arm strength and abilities. In addition, transfer wide receiver Harrison Wallace III has noted a growing sense of camaraderie within the team, attributed to shared experiences off the field that have strengthened relationships among players.
The 2025 schedule presents challenges for Ole Miss as they kick off the season against Georgia State, a team projected to finish last in the Sun Belt East Division. Following that, the Rebels will face SEC rivals, starting with Kentucky on September 6, a game in which they encountered defeat last season. The season lineup also features potentially challenging match-ups against LSU, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida.
As the Rebels strive for a fourth 10-win season in five years, they aim to capitalize on their revamped offensive line and improved running back unit to enhance their ground game. Key injuries and player adjustments will play a crucial role in shaping both strategy and outcomes throughout the season.
As the countdown to the season opener continues, Ole Miss fans and players alike are eager to witness how the newly assembled team will perform and whether they can overcome the adversity from the previous year, secure their place among college football’s elite, and continue their tradition of success in the SEC.
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss Football Practice
- Wikipedia: Ole Miss Rebels
- Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss Football Schedule 2025
- Google Search: Ole Miss Football
- Sports Illustrated: Analysts Buying Stock in Ole Miss
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- A to Z Sports: Ole Miss Football Hot Takes
- Google News: Ole Miss
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