Chris Beard, Ole Miss searching for answers after myriad missed opportunities in non-conference play

After advancing to the Sweet 16 a season ago, expectations were high for Ole Miss and third-year head coach Chris Beard. 

But what has ensued in Oxford has fallen well short of those expectations. Following a 76-62 loss to North Carolina State on Sunday, the Rebels dropped to 7-5 and are lacking any big wins in non-conference play. 

Ole Miss' best win of the season so far was an 83-77 victory over Memphis on Nov. 11, but the Tigers are 4-7 so far this season and look like a team more likely to be destined for the NIT than the NCAA Tournament. It's hard to say anything different about Ole Miss, which is 0-5 in games against Power Six foes this season. The Rebels have losses to Iowa, Utah, Miami and No. 22 St. John's this season, along with Sunday's loss to North Carolina State. 

Ole Miss will need big showing in SEC play

The good news for Beard and the Rebels? The Southeastern Conference is chock-full of golden opportunities to build a resume. 

Assuming Ole Miss gets by Alcorn State in Oxford on Dec. 29, it will enter SEC play at 8-5. Ole Miss will play seven SEC teams currently ranked in the AP poll in a conference that should be very deep. A strong record in SEC play will likely be necessary for Ole Miss to get back to the Big Dance because there has been little cause for celebration for the Rebels in non-conference play.