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Coming off of their first win over Alabama in Tuscaloosa since 1988, the third ranked Ole Miss Rebels return home to face the Vanderbilt Commodores on Saturday.
The Rebels (3-0) will look to keep their absolutely potent offense rolling. Ole Miss averages 64 points per game, three more than any other team in the FBS.
At the head of that attack is quarterback Chad Kelly. Kelly threw for 341 yards and three touchdowns against the Crimson Tide, and has 898 yards and nine scores through the air on the year. The junior gunslinger can also hurt defenses with his legs…he’s picked up a rushing touchdown in each game this season.
To Rebels head coach Hugh Freeze, it’s the time Kelly puts in between Saturdays that makes him special.
“His preparation is probably the best…of any quarterback I’ve ever had,” Freeze said. “I mean, he spends the time trying to prepare himself mentally, physically.”
As a result of Ole Miss’s offensive power, the Commodores (1-2) will need an exceptional game from their defense to stay in Saturday’s game. Luckily for the Dores, their defense is their strength, giving up just 17.3 points per game.
Vandy is coming off of a win over Austin Peay, a game that head coach Derek Mason believes has his team headed in the right direction.
“It was a great growth moment for us,” Mason said. “I feel like this football team is ascending, they are getting better.”
One thing that could impact Saturday’s game…the Rebels aren’t at full strength. Ole Miss is still recovering from the slugfest that was their win over Alabama.
“Coming off of a very physical game with Alabama, we’re a bit beat up,” Freeze said. “It takes a toll on you like this league does, so that’s been a concern.”
The Rebels will be without starting safety Tony Conner after he suffered a torn meniscus against Alabama.
Kickoff Saturday from Vaught-Hemingway stadium is at 7 pm ET.
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