Unfortunately, Ole Miss came off its best performance of the season against Georgia in Week 12 into a bye week. Head coach Lane Kiffin may be happy he has an extra week to get players healthy, but the momentum likely slows down after such a dominant win over a top-three team.
However, their next opponent, Florida, handled playoff-chasing LSU in the Swamp. Before the game, the Gators were 4-5 and +3.5 dogs at home. However, the Tigers' below-average performance is a lesson for Ole Miss to take to Gainseville in Week 13.
Ole Miss, know what can happen if they don't show up in Florida
As a three-loss team, LSU had to win on Saturday in Florida. However, the 27-16 loss put the final nail in their playoff hopes. With Ole Miss traveling to the Swamp this coming Saturday, the LSU loss should warn the Rebels about what can happen if they underperform.
This is one of the most insane plays I have ever seen 😭
— Florida Gators 🐊🔥 (@gatorsszn) November 16, 2024
A double fumble by LSU 🤣 pic.twitter.com/VZdZBhAa8I
No matter the record, every SEC road game can come with difficulties, especially if the better team plays below-average football. LSU did that, turning the ball over, a missed field goal, significant penalties, and field goals over touchdowns.
Florida took advantage of the Tigers not showing up despite not having to play superior football. How the game played out is an excellent lesson for Ole Miss.
Lane Kiffin will talk to his team this week and show them videos of what can happen if they take Florida for granted. The Rebels will drill in the fundamentals, zero turnovers, and play disciplined football. If they do that, they will win the game.
The media and fans are looking at Florida and think that this is now a challenging game. It always was one, but if Ole Miss plays how they did against Arkansas and Georgia, there will be no doubt about the result. LSU losing to the Gators hands the Rebels the fire that could have been lost after a bye week.