The Ole Miss football team aimed for a strong finish following a loss to LSU on October 12 but fell short against Florida, losing 24-17 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. This defeat means the No. 9 Rebels (8-3, 4-3 SEC) will likely miss out on the College Football Playoff, while Florida (6-5, 4-4) is now bowl eligible.
The Rebels entered the season with high hopes, especially after a significant victory against Georgia, which raised expectations for a potential playoff run. However, consecutive close losses, including defeats against Kentucky and LSU, ultimately led to their current predicament. The loss to Florida is another chapter in a series of tight games that the Rebels were unable to secure.
A key concern for the Rebels has been their running back situation. JJ Pegues, who has been a versatile player, had attempts to convert critical fourth-down situations but ultimately fell short. Micah Davis, listed as a receiver, led the team with 11 carries, while traditional running back Ulysses Bentley didn’t see any action during the game. Overall, the team struggled on the ground, tallying only 70 rushing yards, excluding quarterback Jaxson Dart’s contributions.
Looking ahead, Ole Miss is already bowl eligible but faces an uncertain end to their season. The team will host Mississippi State for the traditional Egg Bowl on Friday, but the excitement could be overshadowed by the possibility of several key players deciding to opt-out in preparation for the NFL draft. This trend has become increasingly common as players focus on protecting their professional futures.
Despite the disappointment of missing the playoffs, the Rebels still have a chance to bounce back in their upcoming game and conclude the season on a positive note. The Egg Bowl offers an opportunity for redemption and to finish strong, showing resilience and determination.
Hope remains for the Rebels to regroup and focus on their immediate goals while paving the way for future success. With young talents and a dedicated coaching staff, Ole Miss can turn this setback into a learning experience for the next season.