Ole Miss has gone 137 consecutive pass-blocking snaps without allowing a sack. Georgia arrives in Oxford with 26 sacks this season.
That matchup puts pass protection at the center of Saturday’s showdown at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
The Rebels have kept Trinidad Chambliss upright for three consecutive games, providing reason for confidence. However, Georgia’s ability to stop the run could put that protection under sustained pressure.
The Bulldogs allow just 86 rushing yards per game. With leading running back Kewan Lacy unavailable, Ole Miss needs its remaining backs and Chambliss to generate enough production on early downs to avoid predictable passing situations.
Repeated third-and-long possessions would give Georgia more opportunities to attack the pocket and force hurried decisions. The Rebels’ backs also have responsibilities beyond carrying the football. When assigned to protection, recognizing pressure and picking up additional rushers will be essential.
Having starting left tackle Terez Davis off the availability report is an encouraging development. His availability helps stabilize the tackle rotation and gives Ole Miss an experienced blocker protecting Chambliss’ blind side.
Still, the challenge extends beyond the tackles.
Georgia linebackers Raylen Wilson and Chris Cole have combined for 7.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss. Their production illustrates why the Rebels must account for threats beyond the defensive front.
Communication between the center, guards and running backs will be critical. Identifying rushers and passing off defenders when Georgia’s rushers switch gaps can help preserve space for Chambliss to step forward and deliver on time.
Meanwhile, Chambliss can help his protection with timely decisions. Quick completions and selective movement can limit the time Georgia has to reach him. His mobility provides another way to extend possessions, but completing routine throws efficiently would reduce the burden on the blockers.
Ole Miss has shown it can protect Chambliss. Keeping Georgia from controlling first and second down could decide whether the Rebels give him enough time to make plays Saturday.
