GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Following a pivotal loss to LSU on October 12, the Ole Miss football team had aimed to finish their season on a high note. However, their aspirations were dashed as they suffered a 24-17 defeat against Florida at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. This loss leaves the No. 9 Rebels (8-3, 4-3 SEC) on the brink of missing out on a chance for the College Football Playoff, while Florida’s victory (6-5, 4-4) secures their bowl eligibility.
This upset raises questions and sparks reactions among fans and analysts alike:
Many now see Ole Miss’s once-promising season as diminished, given the looming absence from the playoffs. The victory over Georgia two weeks ago had fueled high hopes, positioning the Rebels well within the College Football Playoff rankings. But with the defeat, they are expected to slide out of the postseason picture, leading to a less thrilling conclusion to what was anticipated as “The Last Dance.”
The Rebels’ struggles this season can be attributed to several nail-biting close games. The team lost narrow contests to Kentucky and LSU, and Saturday’s game against Florida similarly slipped through their fingers.
A notable issue for Ole Miss is the struggle at running back. Defensive lineman JJ Pegues, despite his best efforts, faced challenges when crucial plays were on the line, particularly during two fourth-and-1 attempts that resulted in no gain. This highlights a significant gap in the team’s offensive strategy, especially as senior Micah Davis led the team in rushing attempts despite being labeled a receiver.
With the Egg Bowl approaching, the Rebels face uncertainty. While they have achieved bowl eligibility, a likely ranking for their upcoming games seems less thrilling. College football has seen an increase in player opt-outs as athletes look to avoid injury ahead of the NFL draft, raising questions about who may sit out the remainder of the season.
In summary, Ole Miss’s recent performance has led to concerns surrounding their season’s outcome and future player participation. However, with the Egg Bowl still on the horizon, there remains an opportunity for the team to regain momentum and close the season positively.
This situation underscores the unpredictable nature of college football, where each game can dramatically alter the trajectory of a team’s season. It serves as a reminder that hope remains alive for Ole Miss—a chance to regroup, reflect, and focus on what could be a strong finish in their rivalry matchup.