As the No. 11 Ole Miss Rebels prepare to face off against the Tulane Green Wave, fans and analysts alike are anticipating a matchup that could prove to be the toughest non-conference test of the season. With kickoff scheduled for Saturday, September 20, at 2:30 p.m. CT, at the iconic Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, Mississippi, excitement is palpable both on and off the field. This article delves deep into the key storylines surrounding the game, providing a comprehensive view for enthusiasts and followers of Ole Miss Athletics.
Key Storylines to Watch
1. Sumrall’s Return to Oxford
One of the focal points of the upcoming game is the return of Jon Sumrall, a former Ole Miss linebackers coach. Sumrall has made a name for himself since leaving Ole Miss, leading Troy to an impressive 23-4 record over two seasons before transitioning to Tulane. Under his guidance, Tulane has posted a strong 9-5 record in his inaugural season, continuing its trend of successful campaigns. Sumrall’s familiarity with Ole Miss will undoubtedly add an intriguing layer to the contest.
2. Quarterback Situation
Head coach Lane Kiffin has provided updates regarding the Rebels’ quarterback situation, as the health and performance of the starting quarterback are crucial for Ole Miss’s offensive strategy. Austin Simmons, who suffered an ankle injury recently, is expected to start. However, Trinidad Chambliss showcased exceptional talent with his stellar performance last week against Arkansas. The decision on who will lead the offense could be pivotal, setting the tone for how Ole Miss approaches Tulane’s defense.
3. Tulane’s Standout Quarterback
On the other side, Tulane’s quarterback, Jake Retzlaff, is turning heads this season. Having transferred from BYU, Retzlaff has demonstrated remarkable dual-threat capability, ranking third nationally in rushing yards among quarterbacks and leading with six rushing touchdowns. Additionally, he has showcased efficiency in the passing game, accumulating 522 yards without throwing an interception. Containing Retzlaff’s dynamic skill set will be essential for Ole Miss if they want to secure a victory.
4. Tulane’s Respect in Rankings
Despite having secured two wins against Power 5 teams—Northwestern and Duke—Tulane has not gained significant respect in the national polls, ranking No. 32 in the AP poll and No. 30 in the coaches’ poll. A win against Ole Miss would not only bolster their record but is likely to elevate the Green Wave into the Top 25, a significant milestone that could change the trajectory of their season.
5. Offensive Playmakers
Harrison Wallace III, an Ole Miss wide receiver, has begun his career with impressive back-to-back performances, averaging 113 yards per game. Although he narrowly missed a third consecutive 100-yard game last week, Wallace remains a focal point in the Rebels’ passing attack. His ability to consistently produce will be crucial in creating scoring opportunities against a formidable Tulane defense.
Game Day Information
- Date: Saturday, September 20
- Time: 2:30 p.m. CT
- Location: Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Oxford, Mississippi
- Where to Watch:
- TV: ESPN
- Live Stream: ESPN App
- Radio: Ole Miss Radio Network
For fans wanting to attend, tickets can be purchased through OleMissTix.com. Gameday insights, including parking and tailgating information, can be found on OleMissGameday.com.
Conclusion
The Ole Miss Rebels versus Tulane matchup not only brings excitement but also encapsulates key storylines and battles that will likely shape the success of both teams this season. With significant implications for rankings and postseason aspirations, this game promises to be a thrilling contest.
Fans are encouraged to stay connected with Ole Miss football through their newsletters and social media platforms to keep up with the latest news and developments while also enhancing their gameday experience through the Ole Miss Sports app.
Whether you’re a die-hard Rebel fan or a general college football enthusiast, this weekend promises to be an exceptional opportunity to witness high-stakes college football. As the teams battle it out, the outcomes will undoubtedly affect the trajectory of their respective seasons and shape narratives in the weeks to follow.
