Ole Miss handled Vanderbilt on Saturday, but the Rebels didn’t have an answer for everything.
Despite winning 52-17, Ole Miss allowed Vanderbilt to convert 9 of 17 third downs, a 52.9 percent success rate.
The Rebels forced four turnovers, recorded three sacks and scored a defensive touchdown. Those were encouraging signs following the loss at Florida, but getting off the field remains a concern heading into Saturday’s matchup with No. 13 Missouri.
Turnovers Can’t Be the Only Answer
Ole Miss held Vanderbilt to 103 rushing yards, but the Commodores still finished with 343 total yards, 19 first downs and nearly 34 minutes of possession.
The turnovers helped limit the damage. However, the Rebels can’t depend on creating four takeaways every week.
And Missouri has the weapons to make those missed opportunities more costly.
Missouri Presents a Different Challenge
Former Ole Miss quarterback Austin Simmons and receiver Cayden Lee are returning to Oxford, and their connection could be a problem on third down.
Against Texas A&M, Simmons found Lee for three third-down conversions during Missouri’s first touchdown drive, including a 32-yard touchdown.
Meanwhile, running back Jamal Roberts has rushed for 433 yards over his last two games.
His ability to pick up yards on early downs could force Ole Miss to bring additional defenders closer to the line, opening passing lanes for Simmons and Lee.
That’s where the Rebels must be disciplined.
Ole Miss needs to win first down, maintain coverage responsibilities and prevent short completions from turning into first downs. Tackling receivers immediately after the catch will be just as important as pressuring Simmons.
Golding Has Another Test
Pete Golding got the defensive response he wanted against Vanderbilt, but Missouri will test whether that improvement can continue.
The Rebels showed they can create turnovers and make big plays. Now they must prove they can consistently finish defensive possessions.
Ole Miss made the big plays against Vanderbilt, but Missouri will test whether the Rebels can get off the field when it matters.
The turnovers were impressive. Against Missouri, the third-down stops might matter even more.
