Ole Miss Football: Goodbye to the annual Khaki Bowl

We are approaching the week 9 slate of college football, with Ole Miss competing in their other rivalry game that’s not the Egg Bowl. Yes, surprising to some, their is a second rivalry game for Ole Miss named the Khaki Bowl, with the opponents Vanderbilt.

With the new look SEC coming in 2024, this will be the last annual meeting between Ole Miss and Vanderbilt in the Khaki Bowl. A rivalry game not many knew about, will have more significance than ever on Saturday.

The Rebels have a good recent record in this series, winning eight of the last ten. They also have won the last 4.

Vanderbilt are coming of their first of 2 bye weeks, having played in the week 0 slate. They currently sit at 2-6 and on a six game losing streak. The Commodores are ranked 126th in points allowed per game, with a whopping 37.4 points per game.

Vanderbilt HC Clark Lea signed a contract extension back in July after a strong 2022 season. However, its been tough going this season, with one of those 6 losses against UNLV.

It doesn’t feel like Lea is in threat of losing his job, but as a previous defensive coordinator, it needs to get some what better in the last 4 games.

The offense has played relatively well, averaging 25 points per game. The main offensive threat for the Commodores is WR Will Sheppard. The Senior has 574 receiving yards and 8 TDs, while being a potential under the radar draft steal in the 2024 draft.

QB AJ Swann is questionable for Saturday, with Ken Seals ready to go having played the last 3 games in his absence. Swann has struggled in the first 6 games. However, it will be interesting to see if Lea continues with Seals, who does have better numbers.

The Rebels put up 50+ points against Vandy last season, with the hope of doing it again. They are a huge 25.5-point favourites in the game. If the defense plays like they did in the last two games, then it could be a long night for the Commodores.