Brycen Sanders made his first career start of his three-year Ole Miss career last Saturday against Georgia State. Sanders is supposed to anchor the O-line this year at center, and turned in a serviceable performance.
Sanders is one of the highest rated high school offensive line signees during the Kiffin era at Ole Miss. He was a four-star prospect coming out of Baylor School in Tennessee a couple of years back. However, it was not always clear that Sanders had a future with the Rebels.
Sanders had a decision to make last year when the season came to an end. He had to decide if he wanted to stay at Ole Miss and fight for his spot, or explore other opportunities by entering his name in the transfer portal. Sanders has always wanted to be a rebel and has loved his time at Ole Miss.
Following a conversation with the coaching staff, he knew that they had the belief in him to become a starter and with that he was in on returning for his junior season and competing for a starting role. Since the beginning of spring, Sanders has been penciled in as the starting center, and he has not looked back.
Sanders was asked during his presser this week about how it felt, finally making his first start after waiting his turn.
"Running out of that tunnel for the first time as a starter, it was special." Sanders answered. "Especially after we scored that first touchdown in three plays. Energy was awesome, but you know, I think our performance and my performance specifically wasn't up to our level. I set the bar so high for myself, and I know my teammates do as well." Sanders commented, highlighting the work ethic of this offensive line group as they attempt to get in prime form.
The Rebels will take on the Kentucky Wildcats this upcoming Saturday in Lexington, which will provide a much taller task for this offensive line.