Ole Miss Football: Five Important Keys To Beating The Auburn Tigers

OXFORD, MS - SEPTEMBER 8: A.J. Brown #1 of the Mississippi Rebels points to the sky after scoring a touchdown against the Southern Illinois Salukis during the first half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Oxford, Mississippi. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

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Physical But Smart

The Rebels have allowed 2, 024 yards thru just 7 games giving up 16 TDs. and 289.14 yards thru the air each game. The secondary has been hit hard by injury and the Rebels have been forced into the next man up situation three times. Of course, they are going to be busy if they can stop the Tigers on the ground and will have to make plays without making mistakes.

Luckily the remaining DBs in the rotation are all talented and most are experienced but they have to play smart. Stidham doesn’t make many mistakes but he has been under a fair amount of pressure over the season and has been sacked 15 times. If Stidham is forced to throw the ball and the Rebels can get pressure on him there will be opportunities for big plays but not many. So far Stidham has thrown only 4 INTs.

This game will rely on the Rebels ability to force Stidham to make mistakes but it will require tough physical play from everybody. However, the Rebels defense and especially the secondary have to play smart. There can’t be blown coverage and mental mistakes downfield. Especially unnecessary penalties when they hurt the most.

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