Ole Miss Football: Grading Out The Ole Miss/Kentucky Game
Offense
Ole Miss Rebels Football
Although this Ole Miss offense has struggled to find a ground game outside of Jordan Wilkins they have had no problems passing the football. Once again we got see the arm and accuracy of Jordan Ta’amu as he had another career day behind center.
Quarterback
For the past two games Jordan Ta’amu has taken all the snaps for the Ole Miss Rebels offense and played beyond many Ole Miss fans expectations.
Saturday against the Wildcats Ta’amu was 31 of 41 for 382 yards passing and 4 TDs. Ta’amu also rushed for another 8 net yards. Of course, the most impressive statistic is a result of great decision-making. Jordan Ta’amu threw no INTs.
When you consider how Ta’amu looks so comfortable within this offense and is making smart decisions then we have to grade out his performance favorably.
Quarterback Grade, A+
Wide Receivers
After a weak performance against LSU this talented group needed to step up against the Wildcats. Step up they did in a big way. The NWO appears to be back on track after this past Saturday. AJ Brown led all receivers with 7 receptions for 65 yards and 1 TD. DK Metcalf had 2 TDs on 5 catches for 83 yards. Of course, Metcalf scored the same winner on an acrobatic grab.
Three other receivers also had 5 catches each in the game. Van Jefferson had 5 catches for 82 yards and a TD. Tight-end Dawson Knox had 5 catches for 79 yards. DaMarkus Lodge pulled in 5 grabs for 46 yards. Jordan Wilkins had three receptions for 24 yards out of the backfield. D’Vaughn Pennamon also had a reception out of the backfield.
When 7 different receivers reel in 31 passes for 382 yards on the road you can count on the chances of getting a win multiply. You can also imagine the grades have to be better also. Their grade proves they stepped up big time.
Wide Receivers Grade, A+
Running Backs
This is one major area of concern for the offense this season. There simply hasn’t been a rushing game to speak of outside of Jordan Wilkins. Coach Phil Longo continues to depend on the passing game to move the ball. I know some of you are thinking worry about running the ball if you can pass right? There isn’t until you struggle on the passing end. Luckily that wasn’t a problem in the Kentucky game.
Despite playing on a bad ankle Jordan Wilkins still carried the ball 8 times for 47 yards. D’Vaughn Pennamon had 7 carries for 42 yards. In total Rebels rushers touched the ball 26 times for a net of 91 yards. I realize Wilkins was playing hurt but a few more touches would be great for him. Wilkins is an explosive back and the extra touches could reap huge rewards.
The Ole Miss running-backs played as well in the Kentucky game as they could be expected to. The number of touches is not their fault and falls on the OC and his offensive game plan. They have to be rewarded for their efforts in the Kentucky game.
Running Backs Grade, B
Overall this is an exciting offense to watch on the field when they are clicking. As much as we want to see more rushing coach Phil Long put the game in the hands of his quarterback and talented receivers when the game mattered most. The fade to Metcalf for the game winner was exciting enough to receive a great overall grade.
Overall Offense Grade, A