Ole Miss Football: Top five players on defense returning in 2021

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Nov 14, 2020; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi Rebels defensive back A.J. Finley (21) intercepts a pass intended for South Carolina Gamecocks linebacker Jahmar Brown (8) during the first half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /

A.J. Finley, DB

The Rebels’ defense took a lot of heat for giving up big chunks of yardage for much of the 2020 season. However, much of the yardage came from the inability to stop the run. The secondary played relatively well with 6 takeaways on the season. 3 of those 6 interceptions came courtesy of junior defensive back A.J. Finley. At 6’2 and 200 lbs, A.J. has the perfect size to play physical as well as the speed to cover any receiver.

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Simply put, he was outstanding in the Ole Miss secondary. Finley’s ability to play the entire field allowed him to finish his sophomore season with amazing numbers. Finley ended up the season with the 3 interceptions, 62 tackles, 7 pass breakups, 2 quarterback hurries, and 1 fumble recovery. His junior season could be even better. Rebels fans can expect to see Finley in the Rebels secondary and can also expect great things.

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