Ole Miss will be without its leading running back Saturday, giving four Rebels a chance to take on larger roles against Auburn.
Head coach Pete Golding confirmed Monday that Kewan Lacy will miss the game after dislocating his shoulder in the loss to Texas. Lacy will undergo further evaluation, so his availability beyond this week remains uncertain.
Makhi Frazier is the most established option behind Lacy. He has rushed for 301 yards this season and showed his explosiveness against Texas, gaining 47 yards on six carries. Frazier could be in line for the largest share of the work against Auburn.
JT Lindsey could also see an expanded role. The LSU transfer has already been part of the backfield rotation, and Lacy’s absence gives him a chance to contribute more consistently.
Shekai Mills-Knight and Joshua Dye round out the group. Both could help Ole Miss keep fresh legs in the backfield as the Rebels adjust their game plan.
Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss could also become a bigger part of the ground attack. Golding has said Chambliss needs to use his athletic ability when defenses take away passing options. With Lacy out, Chambliss’ ability to run could give Auburn another threat to account for and help the Rebels keep the offense balanced.
Ole Miss will need reliable production on the ground to support Chambliss and keep Auburn’s defense from focusing entirely on the passing game. The Rebels could use multiple backs, with Frazier leading the group and the others earning touches based on their assignments.
Lacy’s absence is a significant loss, but it opens the door for Ole Miss’ other running backs to show what they can provide. How well the group shares the workload could shape the Rebels’ offensive approach Saturday.
