If Ole Miss wants to pass the bar they set for this season, everybody will have to contribute at some point. This will lead to players surprising college football fans, and these three Rebels' players are set to do just that.
Dae'Quan Wright, tight end
Tight end Caden Prieskorn had an excellent stretch of games down the back end of the 2023 season, contributing as a pass catcher and blocker. After missing the first three games, Prieskorn took most of the tight-end snaps despite having guys behind him.
Bringing in Dae'Quan Wright alongside Prieskorn is going to be a dangerous combo. It's what Ole Miss wanted from Michael Trigg last season, but it did not work out. Wright is one of the most athletic tight ends in the nation. He offers something different to Prieskorn but also compliments his skill set.
Wright will take a low volume from Prieskorn. However, we could see two tight end sets used more frequently on offense, with schemes set up to confuse defenses while having more blocking power in the run game.
TJ Dudley, linebacker
Ole Miss added middle linebacker Chris Paul Jr. from the transfer portal, bringing SEC experience to the defensive front alongside others. Ole Miss fans may forget that the talented TJ Dudley is still on the roster. Dudley transferred from Clemson before the 2023 season. However, he had to miss every game except the Peach Bowl after the NCAA didn't approve his transfer.
A four-star prospect from the 2022 recruiting class, Dudley had a promising outing against Penn State in the Peach Bowl victory; looking at his skillset and talent, it will feel like a new transfer for Lane Kiffin in 2024
Being able to rotate Paul Jr. out for Dudley means we won't see a drop-off in ability. Defensive coordinator Pete Golding may sometimes switch him out to the edge as he has the size. The rotation at the linebacker position is scary for the Rebels.
Rashad Amos, running back
Every running back Ole Miss has brought in from the transfer portal, alongside Ulysses Bently IV, will play some part this season. Rashad Amos may be the team's biggest surprise when the season finishes. He also has fuel to motivate him on the field in 2024.
Amos ran for over 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns for Miami (OH) last season. He is a wrecking ball of a human, being listed at 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds. Amos has some speed in the open space. However, Amos will help Ole Miss on short-yard gains and the goal line.
That's not underselling what he brings to the team; Amos can do much more and will rotate in with the other guys across the season. However, with the RedHawks repeatedly, we saw Amos hit the line of scrimmage hard inside the five-yard line for touchdowns. You can defend power and size at the goal line when schemed right.