Georgia Southern Eagles vs. Mississippi Rebels Pick & Prediction SEPTEMBER 21st 2024

Preview and Prediction

Ole Miss standout Jaxson Dart, a top contender for the Heisman Trophy, has been making headlines with his impressive performance and 11 total touchdowns. However, the team's defense has also been making waves and has emerged as the best in the Southeastern Conference.

The Rebels have had a strong start to their season, winning all three of their nonconference games. They are currently ranked No. 5 and will face the Georgia Southern Eagles in their final game before entering a tough stretch of eight consecutive SEC matchups.

One of the key factors in Ole Miss' success has been their dominant defense, led by coordinator Pete Golding. In their first three games, the Rebels have not allowed a single opponent to score a touchdown, holding them to a mere 9 points while racking up an impressive 168 points on the scoreboard.

This feat has not been achieved by an Ole Miss team since 1961 and is a testament to the strength and skill of their defense. They are currently tied with Ohio State for the best scoring defense, leading in rushing defense and ranking third in tackles for loss.

Linebacker TJ Dottery credits the team's success to their ability to stop the run. He praises the physicality and aggression of the defensive line, linebackers, and safeties, and emphasizes the importance of their run game in securing victories.

Head coach Lane Kiffin also recognizes the impact of their improved defensive front, which was a priority for the team after their loss to Georgia last season. Transfer linebacker Chris Paul Jr. leads the team with 19 tackles and shares the lead for tackles for loss with defensive tackle JJ Pegues. Safety Trey Washington has also been a standout with three pass breakups.

After their game against Georgia Southern, the Rebels will shift their focus to their SEC opener against Kentucky. But first, they must face the Sun Belt Conference's Eagles, who have a 2-1 record after a close loss to Boise State and wins over Nevada and South Carolina State.

In their most recent game, running back OJ Arnold and Jalen White both made an impact with a touchdown each. White, a fifth-year senior from Alabama, has been a reliable and powerful force for coach Clay Helton's team.

Despite dealing with injuries, Helton considers White to be their go-to option in short-yardage situations and has full confidence in his abilities. He praises White's toughness and reliability, calling him a "warrior" and stating that he would bet his life on him in a one-on-one situation.

Overall, the Rebels have a tough road ahead with their upcoming SEC matchups, but their strong defense and talented players like Jaxson Dart and Jalen White give them a fighting chance to come out on top.

PREDICTION

Georgia Southern Eagles

Mississippi Rebels