OXFORD, Miss. — Ole Miss must slow Georgia’s rushing attack Saturday, with its leading tackler and a starting defensive end both questionable.
Linebacker Keaton Thomas and defensive end Kam Franklin received those designations on Wednesday’s initial SEC availability report. Their uncertain status adds to the challenge against a Georgia offense averaging 200.1 rushing yards and 41 points per game.
Thomas leads the Rebels with 53 tackles, including eight against Auburn. Franklin has added 25 tackles, five tackles for loss and two sacks. Potentially losing either would place more responsibility on the defensive rotation.
Ole Miss allows 148.9 rushing yards per game. The Rebels need their front to hold its ground, maintain outside containment and give their linebackers room to finish tackles.
Georgia’s balance complicates that assignment. The Bulldogs also average 250.8 passing yards per game, meaning Ole Miss cannot sell out against the run without leaving opportunities through the air.
The priority is limiting Georgia’s rushing success on early downs. Allowing consistent gains would leave the Bulldogs with manageable third downs and access to their full playbook.
With or without Thomas and Franklin, Ole Miss must win early downs and make Georgia earn its yards.
