By Elijah Klepczyk
Emmerich Newspapers
Ole Miss football is back in action this week, as it will travel to Nashville for the second time this season, this time to take on the Vanderbilt Commodores.
The Rebels are coming off of a much needed bye week, after playing three top-25 opponents in their opening four-game stretch. Vandy, on the other hand, is riding a two-game losing streak after losses to Auburn and Georgia in previous weeks.
The Dore’s are led by true freshman quarterback Jared Curtis who has been consistent for Vanderbilt despite its 3-2 (0-2) start. Curtis did not play last week against UGA, but Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lee said his injury was “not long-term”. It is unknown if the talented freshman will play against the Rebels this weekend.
Junior Sherrill has been the Commodore's most lethal offensive weapon, hauling in 28 catches for 474 yards this season. Sherrill will pose an interesting matchup to the Ole Miss defense that gave up almost 500 yards of offense in its loss to Florida two weeks ago.
Vanderbilt’s run defense has been stout thus far into the season, not allowing a 100-yard rusher through its first five games. The status of star tailback Kewan Lacy is still up in the air for the Rebels, as he did not play against the Gators. His availability may prove to be a big factor in the Ole Miss offense that will be looking to make a statement on the road.
The Rebels have won their last five matchups against Vanderbilt and lead the all-time series, which dates back to 1894, 41-39-2. This will be the first time the two teams have played since 2023.
Golding said after the loss to Florida that the team needed to keep that “bad taste in their mouths.” He added that he wants them to respond with more physicality, and that the team will have to step up if they want to achieve their goals this year.
Those sentiments will be put to the test as both teams will be looking to get back on track this week, as they are both entering the matchup following a loss.
Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. and will be televised on ESPN.
