The spring practice is in full swing, and the spring festivities are about to set in. Ole Miss football had a special announcement to set the tone for the Meet the Rebels day to come.
Deuce Alexander the new #1
On Monday, the Rebels announced their new jersey numbers, and they particularly had a surprise in store for WR Deuce Alexander: the #1 jersey.
In Oxford, it means a lot more than just a number; it means Pete Golding has officially anointed Alexander as the alpha of the offense. It's a loud and clear locker room statement.
Historically, the #1 jersey belongs to those with the potential to leave legacies. A.J. Brown to Jonathan Mingo and, most recently, De'Zhaun Stribling.
Golding promoting Alexander from #11 to #1 was clear proof of the level of trust the Wake Forest transfer has earned in the Rebels locker room. With this, the WR essentially got a "vote of confidence" as the primary target of the passing game.
Averaging 15.5 yards per catch last season, Alexander proved he has the explosiveness to stretch the field.
A career-high 94 yards and a touchdown, including a massive 18.5 yards per catch average in the Egg Bowl, prove he can translate his skills in high-pressure situations.
Alexander played through 15 games last season, consistently showing up when needed the most.
Although the Rebels had seniors like Harrison Wallace III and the former #1 Stribling leading the WR room, Alexander still managed to leave an impression good enough for the #1 jersey.
Wit both of them off to the NFL now, Alexander will be Trinidad Chamblis's primary target as the Rebels prepare for another CFP run.