The Ole Miss Rebels head to Lexington to face the Kentucky Wildcats, for their first SEC test, and while the matchup favors Ole Miss on paper, there are still reasons for caution.
On Game Runs Deep, the preview focused on the gap in talent, but also the reality of playing Kentucky on the road.
The Wildcats did not inspire confidence in week one. A sluggish performance against Toledo raised questions about the Wildcats’ offense, particularly at quarterback with Zach Calzada. The unit lacks proven playmakers and struggled to find consistency.
That said, this is still a dangerous spot. Playing in Lexington, even in a mid-afternoon window, can be a challenge. Under Mark Stoops, Kentucky has built a reputation for physical play and pulling off at least one upset each season.
Ole Miss cannot overlook that, especially after last season’s upset loss to the Wildcats in Oxford. The key will be balance. After leaning heavily on the pass in week one, expect Ole Miss to establish the run game early, especially with Kewan Lacy providing a new dimension. A more balanced offense should help take pressure off Austin Simmons as he continues to settle in.
Mistakes will matter. If Ole Miss protects the football and capitalizes on opportunities, the Rebels should be able to separate as the game goes on. But early turnovers or stalled drives could keep Kentucky in the game longer than expected.
That is where this matchup gets interesting. Ole Miss has the edge in talent and should win this game. But on the road in SEC play, especially against a physical opponent, nothing comes easy.
A fast start would change the tone. Otherwise, this could turn into a much tighter game than expected before Ole Miss pulls away.
