Two Ole Miss players who need a bounce-back performance in Week 6

Ole Miss still has seven games left on the schedule, but after the loss to Kentucky, their season could hinge on today's game. It's not an overreaction; a loss today means the Rebels must go unbeaten in their final six. Yes, they are capable, but having less wiggle room would jeopardise their playoff chances.

Although several players played well against the Wildcats in Week 5, others underperformed by their high standards. Talks have been had, and with Lane Kiffin not on socials in the last three days, you know work has been put in for a dangerous South Carolina team. I have chosen two players who need bounce performances today, one on each side of the ball.

Jaxson Dart, Quarterback

He doesn't need me to say it, Jaxson Dart is fully aware he needed to play better against Kentucky. Speaking after the game, a dejected Dart said the team were hurting and will look to fix things this week heading into the South Carolina game.

Dart threw for under 300 yards and under a 70% completion rate for the first time this season; yes, it was against much tougher opposition, and it wasn't his worst game to date, but it was not near his standards. A couple of costly mental mistakes could have put the team in a better position to win the game. One was a free play, where he took a hit instead of throwing the ball, causing a fumble. The Rebels recovered, but it was a missed chance to get them closer to a field goal attempt.

Dart will face plenty of adversity in this game and will likely get knocked around a lot. It's the type of game where he will need to put the offence on his back, as this could be a shoot-out.

Trey Amos, Cornerback

Alabama transfer Trey Amos was a significant addition to the Ole Miss defence this past offseason. In the first four games, he has shown the abilities he brings to the team, shutting down wide receivers, especially in the Wake Forest win.

Against Kentucky, he was tested by wide receiver Dane Key. He came out on top in some situations but also lost out on plenty, including the touchdown. Key is a good receiver, and plenty of cornerbacks would come up short. Amos was a little off it rather than Key being superior. A handful of times, Amos was slow to react to a route, giving up first-down plays.

The secondary, on the whole, needs a good performance. It looks like the Achilles heel of the defence, with the pass rush and runs defence playing very well through five games. Amos is the leader. Despite being a new player on the team, he will need all his experience to help change the narrative around the cornerbacks.