Ole Miss running back Makhi Frazier is finding his rhythm at the perfect time as the No. 9 Rebels prepare for a high-stakes road trip to face Texas on Saturday in Austin.
The junior transfer from Michigan State and McKinney, Texas native exploded for a season-high 101 rushing yards on 15 carries in Saturday’s 31-3 homecoming victory over No. 13 Missouri. He combined with Kewan Lacy for a pair of 100-yard performances that helped the Rebels pile up more than 250 yards on the ground while the defense limited the Tigers to just 39 rushing yards.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday during Ole Miss’ Texas preview availability, Frazier credited steady improvement in practice for his recent success.
“Man, just been able to go in and work hard in practice and just fix this thing that I need to fix before, like from the first week and bring it to the next week and keep getting better each and every week,” Frazier said when asked what’s been working for him lately.
The former Spartans standout, who has 254 rushing yards on 45 carries this season, noted clear growth from a year ago.
“I’d say this year just being disciplined on like the reads that I need to be disciplined on and like within the scheme and stuff and just been able to just really be in more shape this year and hydrated more,” he said.
After a quiet start that saw him total just 17 carries through the first three games, Frazier has turned it on in recent weeks. He explained how he handles the natural ups and downs of a season while sharing carries.
“I’ll say the what I can say about that is really just been able to keep working and no matter the situation just know no matter if it’s good or bad just keep putting in the work and then eventually the cream will rise to the top,” Frazier said.
Far from feeling pressure in a split backfield, he feeds off Lacy’s success.
“No, I wouldn’t say there’s no pressure. Like once I see like the other guy other guys in the rhythm, then that makes me want to be able to get in a rhythm and be able to play good and just play off of him, play off his energy and and keep bringing the same energy that he bring,” Frazier explained.
His first 100-yard game in the SEC felt special.
“Yeah, it felt pretty good to get the first first 100 yards in the SEC is really a blessing and I just want to be able to be able to do it week in and week out and just keep working,” he said. On the value of both backs producing, he added, “I think it’s huge for the team. We can be able to run the ball and know that no matter who’s in that they’re going to get the job done.”
Frazier also spoke about improving his pass protection by studying Lacy, the challenge of running against elite defenders like Will Echols in practice, and the inspiration of watching Lacy fight through injuries.
For the Texas native, this week’s matchup in Austin carries personal significance as Ole Miss (5-1, 3-1 SEC) looks to keep its College Football Playoff hopes alive against the Longhorns. Kickoff is set for 6:30/7:30 p.m. CT on Saturday.