Ole Miss DL JJ Pegues discusses Rebels’ dominant start: ‘We feel like we’re the best defense in the country’
OXFORD, Miss. – For the first time since 1961, the Ole Miss defense has not allowed a touchdown in its first three games, outscoring their opponents 168-9. Rebel defensive lineman JJ Pegues says that despite how impressive the unit has looked, the team doesn’t expect anything less than the standard that’s been established.
“We really just take it personal. You know, we feel like we’re the best defense in the country, and we try to practice that way. And you know, just not letting them score, really trying to just set the tone for the coming up SEC play. And just have that mindset each and every day, like we’re the best, and you just gotta get through us.”
– Pegues on the defense not allowing a touchdown
Show ’em how it’s done JJ 🏹@JeremiahPegues4 | #HottyToddy pic.twitter.com/pu8iFodlJx
— Ole Miss Football (@OleMissFB) September 14, 2024
As it stands, opposing offenses are averaging 33.3 rushing yards against the Rebs, which is the second-fewest in the country, averaging 1.15 yards per carry. The Rebs rank No. 23 in total defense, one of three teams (Ohio State and Georgia) that have yet to allow a touchdown through week three.
Make them tap out 👿🦈#ProMindset | #HottyToddy pic.twitter.com/PngwETt4wS
— Ole Miss Football (@OleMissFB) September 15, 2024
While there is an evident amount of talent across the Ole Miss defense, Pegues says that the mindset embedded in the players has played a critical role in leading them to complete dominance.
“Just go ‘STB,’ spot the ball. No matter what, no matter who we’re playing, no matter what condition we’re playing in, just gonna spot the ball. Play fast, fearless, and physical, no matter how long it takes, and go get the win.”
– Pegues on the defensive mindset
Looking at the other side of the ball for JJ, the 6-foot-2, 325-pound defensive tackle has found himself being used as a secret weapon for Lane Kiffin’s offense when it is fourth down with a short distance to go. The former tight end has a ridiculous amount of athleticism and proved it on the field against Wake Forest when he dove over a pile of defenders to convert a first down for Ole Miss.
4th & 1? Hand it off to JJ Pegues 😤#HottyToddy pic.twitter.com/BoeoTmXkgV
— Ole Miss Football (@OleMissFB) September 16, 2024
“So they called it the Wildcat, obviously. And as I was thinking, I was like, Alright, let’s just pound it. Get the first down, let’s keep the chains moving. And then Jaxson (Dart) clapped, and I saw the D-line, just submarine the O-line. I was like, I can’t go outside, so there’s only one way, one way I can go, and then up and over. So I jumped, and the rest is history. I got the first down, but it was fun. People came into the sidelines and were like, ‘Man, I didn’t think you could jump like that?’ Well, I just tell them to watch the high school with highlights, but it was fun.”
– Pegues on his wildcat conversion against Wake Forest
As the Rebels prepare for Georgia Southern, this defense looks to maintain its streak of preventing a touchdown and staying healthy before the first week of SEC play. Until then, be sure to stay tuned with The Rebel Walk. Hotty Toddy!
