The Ole Miss football team aimed high after their loss to LSU on October 12, envisioning a successful finish to the season. However, their aspirations were thwarted when they suffered a 24-17 defeat against Florida on Saturday at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. This loss not only secured Florida’s bowl eligibility but also likely eliminated Ole Miss from contention for the College Football Playoff.
In reflecting on the Rebels’ disappointing game, it’s evident that this season’s promise seems diminished without a playoff berth. After impressively defeating Georgia, expectations soared, particularly following their ranking as the No. 9 team in the latest College Football Playoff standings. Unfortunately, Ole Miss will likely see their season conclude in the non-playoff bowl circuit, marking a lackluster finish to what was touted as “The Last Dance.”
The Rebels have repeatedly fallen short in close contests, with losses to Kentucky by just three points and an overtime loss to LSU serving as painful reminders. The game against Florida followed a similar narrative, exemplifying the struggles the team faced in sealing victories.
Additionally, the lack of a reliable running back has hindered Ole Miss’s performance. JJ Pegues, a defensive lineman who has stepped up offensively, faced setbacks in critical moments, unable to convert on two separate fourth-and-1 attempts during the game. While senior Micah Davis led the team with 11 carries, the overall rushing performance was underwhelming, with just 70 yards gained on the ground besides quarterback Jaxson Dart’s contributions.
Looking ahead, the Rebels are already bowl eligible but face a critical matchup in the Egg Bowl against Mississippi State (2-8, 0-6 SEC) on Friday. With the season winding down, there’s a growing trend of players with professional potential opting out of games to avoid injury. This could impact Ole Miss significantly, as several key players might choose to refrain from participating in the remaining games to focus on their NFL futures.
In summary, while the Rebels have faced some tough blows this season, including injuries and close losses, there is still an opportunity for a strong finish in the Egg Bowl. Fans can hold onto hope for a spirited performance as they rally to conclude the season on a positive note before heading into bowl season.