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)
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.
Related Story. Co-DC/Secondary Coach!. light
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.