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The Ole Miss Rebels football team prides itself on playing entertaining football and winning the right way. With head coach Lane Kiffin, they've been doing that since 2020. Ahead of the 2024 college football season, the Rebels will be aiming for yet another winning season and potentially a spot in the revamped playoff format.
However, to achieve their lofty expectations for the upcoming season, the Rebels will need to win some key matchups. Let's examine these matchups and how they can come out on top.
The Ole Miss Rebels' key matchups in 2024
Here's a look at three must-win games for the Ole Miss Rebels' playoff hopes:
1. South Carolina - October 5, 2024
The South Carolina Gamecocks might not be the toughest team on paper, but playing at their stadium has always been a challenging task. The Gamecocks will likely start the highly rated LaNorris Sellers at quarterback.
South Carolina's Williams-Brice Stadium is a tough place to play in, and their fans will be particularly fired up on game day. Furthermore, former South Carolina wide receiver Antwane Wells will take to the field in an Ole Miss Rebels jersey on that day.
2. LSU - October 12, 2024
The LSU Tigers are one of the Rebels' biggest rivals. The last time the sides met, the Rebels scored a statement win over Brian Kelly's side. Kelly has since made some significant improvements to the defensive department.
The LSU game will be at the Tigers' stadium at nighttime. The Rebels must achieve this win to have a realistic chance of making the playoffs.
3. Oklahoma - October 26, 2024
The Oklahoma Sooners and Ole Miss Rebels will face off on the Rebels' home turf to close out October. It comes after a gruelling month that might have either made or broken the Rebels' season.
The Rebels need to win this game, as they have the Arkansas Razorbacks next and the number-one-ranked Georgia Bulldogs after them. If the Rebels take care of business versus the Sooners, the Bulldogs game could be the biggest in the Rebels' history.
Lane Kiffin's Rebels have a top-notch roster in 2024
Lane Kiffin's team will have returning stars quarterback Jaxson Dart, wide receiver Tre Harris and tight end Caden Prieskorn on this year's roster. Defensive gems edge Princely Umanmielen and defensive lineman Walter Nolen will join them.
The Ole Miss Rebels have a balanced roster and should aim for a deep playoff run in 2024.
