Sooners Invite the Rebels, Ole Miss vs. Oklahoma

Oklahoma is coming off a bounce-back win against South Carolina, where they established the run with Tory Blaylock for 101 yards. This week, they take on 8th 8th-ranked Ole Miss, which is coming off a loss to Georgia in Athens. It’s a battle of SEC foes looking to make a statement for their CFB Playoff hopes. Here’s the preview for Ole Miss vs. Oklahoma.

Ole Miss vs. Oklahoma Preview

A Battle of Heisman Candidates

A tale of two unlikely stars has become one of the biggest names in the SEC. Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer and Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss have both become Heisman contenders this season, helping their teams go 6-1 up to this point. Both have thrown for over 1,500 yards and run for over 200.

Previously at Ferris State, Chambliss is 4-1 as a starter with the Rebels. In those five games, he has only thrown for one pick and at least 250 yards in each game. His current QBR is 84.9, which is currently 9th in the nation. Conversely, Mateer bounced back last week, throwing for 150 yards on a 62% completion rate. He was only sacked once against the Gamecocks, four fewer than he was against Texas. Both quarterbacks now look to solidify a solid win on their resumes.

A Red Zone War

Oklahoma proved last week that its red zone defense was the real deal. They held South Carolina to fourth down twice on the goal, stopping them once. On top of that, they had six sacks. It’s the offense for Ole Miss that gets the most attention. Against Washington State a few weeks ago, their red zone offense struggled, but bounced back last week against Georgia, scoring touchdowns on their first five drives. This will be a war inside the 20, so expect a back-and-forth battle.

Can Blaylock do it again

Blaylock was the story last week for the Sooners as he eclipsed the 100-yard mark for the second time this season. He added one touchdown, which was the first score of the game. He looks to replicate that performance alongside backup running back Xavier Robinson. If Oklahoma can effectively run it from here on out, it will be a threat in the SEC.

Rebel Receiving Room

Ole Miss has one of the most balanced receiving rooms in the nation. Currently, they have seven guys over 100 receiving yards, with Lacy just under, with 97 yards. Harrison Wallace leads the team with 400 yards, followed by tight end Dae’Quan Wright. With Chambliss’ consistency, the Rebels have become a top-tier passing team.

Key Player

Kewan Lacy, RB Ole Miss

Lacy has been the benefactor this season for Ole Miss, as he has 10 rushing touchdowns on 618 yards. The former Missouri running back has been an absolute spark plug as he looks to continue his productive season. Against Georgia, he was held to 31 yards but still ended up in the end zone twice. He now takes on the third-best run defense in the nation based on rushing yards allowed per game.

It’s the third time in their program’s history that the Rebels play the Sooners. The winner on Saturday will likely be ranked seventh and above. As for the loser, a second loss in SEC play and likely no chance of making the SEC championship. Currently, the line is at 5.5 for Oklahoma. Kickoff is noon, so don’t miss the early kickoff. Enjoy game day, everyone.