Ole Miss Safety Key Lawrence is ‘hungry, dedicated, and energetic’ heading into Saturday’s Grove Bowl Games
OXFORD, Miss. – Key Lawrence became one of the 17 transfers to commit to Ole Miss this offseason, coming from the University of Oklahoma with one year of eligibility remaining. While many factors played into his recruitment, Lawrence quickly recognized the talent on this Ole Miss roster and says he made his decision in the middle of December.
“It was pretty simple for me, I was just trying to get closer back to home and plus I wanted to get back into the SEC. I just wanted to be a part of the team honestly.“
~ Lawrence on why he picked Ole Miss.
Highest graded Safety from Week 4:
🔴 Key Lawrence: 91.3 pic.twitter.com/C4VOe3yJ59
— PFF College (@PFF_College) September 25, 2023
The Nashville native played three years at Oklahoma where he held a crucial role in the Sooners’ secondary. This past season, the safety started in six games for Oklahoma and recorded 44 total tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble.
Prior to his time in Norman, Lawrence began his career as a freshman playing for the Tennessee Volunteers. He saw action in all 10 games as a reserve defensive back and special teams contributor for the Vols.
When Lawrence was asked to give himself a scouting report, his response was just as promising as fans would’ve hoped.
“Somebody that is hungry, dedicated, and energetic. I try to be everywhere. I try to flash on film, get the crowd involved, make it more entertaining, and be there for my teammates.“
~ Lawrence describing himself
During his short time as a Reb, Key says that even though he’s learning a new scheme next to unfamiliar faces, the coaching staff has made his adjustment far smoother than some may have thought.
“It’s been pretty easy. They came in with welcoming arms, so they’ve been teaching me every day. The coaches here have been on me every day and in my playbook, so it’s been pretty easy.“
~ Lawrence on his adjustment from Oklahoma to Ole Miss
Looking at this Saturday for the Grove Bowl Games, head coach Lane Kiffin announced that there will be a dunk competition, an obstacle course, and a hot dog eating competition with Joey Chestnut. Regardless of the updated spring game model, Key plans on bringing his consistent mindset to the Vaught, both on and off the field.
“I’m not really trying to do anything different, it’s whatever coach wants me to do, I’m going to be the best at whatever coach wants me to do, hot dog eating contest or whatever, I don’t care.“
~ Lawrence on his mindset for Saturday
When Key mentioned the hot dog eating contest, he was immediately asked if he would be participating in it, leaving us with another incredible answer, stating, “It’s Joey Chestnut, man, I’m not going to beat that dude.”
Be sure to show your support for Ole Mis Football this Saturday at Vaught-Hemingway! Gates open at 2 p.m., and kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. Hotty Toddy
Zach Moreth
Zach is a freshman at Ole Miss and is studying Sports Administration. Outside of watching and playing sports, he enjoys spending time with his loved ones and being active. I’m excited to help cover our amazing Ole Miss sports teams!
