Ole Miss Football: Top five players on defense returning in 2021
![Sep 7, 2019; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels linebacker Sam Williams (13) celebrates during the first half against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports Sep 7, 2019; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels linebacker Sam Williams (13) celebrates during the first half against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/5952e4d968be7aea7fdec2e17403158f0e0c91fd149a0a2afbe69de80c2c8e93.jpg)
Tariqious Tisdale, DL
If the Ole Miss Rebels expect to build on the success they saw in 2020 it will require having a much better defense. Lane Kiffin saw a problem on the defensive line and subsequently relieved the line coach of his duties. While there is no coach for the D-line at this point, the new coach will gather a bevy of talent on the line. Tariqious Tisdale is certainly a player who will be looked at to step up.
Tisdale announced in early January he will be taking advantage of the NCAA rule allowing a fifth year of eligibility because of Covid-19. In 2020, Tisdale only played in six games because of injury but can be expected to see much more playing time in 2021. Listed at 6’5 and 295 lbs, Tisdale will be a huge part of the Rebels defensive line and should have a great 2021 season.