Lane Kiffin and the Rebels Positioned for College Football Playoff Push in 2025
OXFORD, Miss. — Just one year removed from knocking on the College Football Playoff’s door, the Ole Miss Rebels are ready to kick it down in 2025.
With a retooled roster, a high-octane offense, and rising star quarterback Austin Simmons at the helm, the Rebels are earning national attention—and for good reason. CBS Sports recently highlighted Ole Miss as a team with legitimate playoff potential, thanks in large part to head coach Lane Kiffin’s masterful work in the transfer portal.
“Lane Kiffin’s work in the transfer portal helped him take Ole Miss to essentially unprecedented levels. His portal-heavy approach carries more risk this year, but he earned the benefit of the doubt when he led the Rebels to the playoff bubble with a squad built largely upon veteran newcomers. Early returns on first-year starting quarterback Austin Simmons have been great, so if he keeps the offense humming and the talent acquisition efforts pay dividends again, Ole Miss should expect to be right back within striking distance.“
— CBS Sports
Kiffin’s Portal Magic
Kiffin’s portal prowess isn’t just hype—it’s production. In 2024, the Rebels leaned heavily on veteran newcomers to secure 10 wins and a trip to the Gator Bowl. They were oh-so-close to making the College Football Playoffs, finishing at No. 14, just outside the 12-team playoffs. In the final AP Poll, the Rebels finished at 11 after dismantling Duke in the bowl game.
Now, with another offseason of elite additions and one of the SEC’s most electric offenses, Ole Miss is doubling down on its blueprint for success.
This year’s class of transfers includes game-changing athletes across all three phases of the game, giving the Rebels critical depth and explosiveness heading into a pivotal SEC slate.
Key Transfer Additions for 2025
Here’s a look at some of the standout transfers who are expected to make an immediate impact:
- De’Zhaun Stribling, WR (Oklahoma State): A dynamic receiver who brings experience and playmaking ability to the Rebels’ offense.
- Luke Hasz, TE (Arkansas): A versatile tight end known for his blocking and receiving skills, adding depth to the offensive lineup.
- Princewill Umanmielen, EDGE (Nebraska): A disruptive force on the defensive line, expected to bolster the Rebels’ pass rush.
- Patrick Kutas, OL (Arkansas): An experienced lineman who will strengthen the offensive front.
- Harrison Wallace III, WR (Penn State): A reliable target with a knack for big plays, enhancing the receiving corps.
- Jaylon Braxton, CB (Arkansas): A talented cornerback who adds depth and skill to the secondary.
- Sage Ryan, S (LSU): A hard-hitting safety with SEC experience, expected to lead the defensive backfield.
- Caleb Odom, WR (Alabama): A promising young receiver with size and speed, poised to make an impact.
- Traylon Ray, WR (West Virginia): A playmaker who adds versatility and depth to the wide receiver group.
- Kewan Lacy, RB (Missouri): A powerful runner who will contribute to the Rebels’ ground game.
- Antonio Kite, S (Auburn): A versatile defensive back with the ability to play multiple positions in the secondary.
- Delano Townsend, OL (UAB): A strong and agile lineman who will provide depth to the offensive line.
- Andrew Jones, LB (Grambling State): A tackling machine expected to make immediate contributions to the linebacker unit.
- Tahj Chambers, LB (Missouri State): An athletic linebacker who brings energy and playmaking ability to the defense.
- Kapena Gushiken, DB (Washington State): A seasoned defensive back known for his coverage skills and football IQ.
- Tavoy Feagin, CB (Clemson): A young cornerback with high upside, adding depth to the secondary.
- Percy Lewis, OT (Auburn): A massive offensive tackle who will be a key protector on the line.
Simmons Ready for the Moment
One of the biggest reasons for optimism in Oxford is the rapid rise of quarterback Austin Simmons. The dual-sport star has been turning heads with his poise, arm talent, and decision-making in spring and early summer workouts. Though technically a first-year starter, Simmons has the skillset and confidence of a veteran.
His ability to extend plays, stretch defenses, and lead under pressure makes him the perfect fit for Kiffin’s aggressive, tempo-driven offense.
The bottom line
With marquee matchups on deck and the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff field now in play, Ole Miss has everything to gain. The Rebels’ 2025 schedule includes key games against playoff contenders, giving them plenty of chances to make noise—and make their case.
The bottom line is the team isn’t sneaking up on anyone anymore. The days of Ole Miss being labeled an underdog are long gone. Vegas Sports Books have the Rebels projected at 8.5 wins on the season, behind only Alabama, Georgia and Texas, who are projected to win 9.5 games.
Ole Miss will have the benefit of one of the most innovative coaches and explosive quarterbacks in college football. So, expectations are high, the spotlight is on, and Lane Kiffin’s Rebels look ready to meet the moment.
Evelyn Van Pelt
Evelyn has covered sports for over two decades, beginning her journalism career as a sports writer for a newspaper in Austin, Texas. She attended Texas A&M and majored in English. Evelyn's love for Ole Miss began when her daughter Katie attended the university on a volleyball scholarship. Evelyn created the Rebel Walk in 2013 and has served as publisher and managing editor since its inception. Email Evie at: Evie@TheRebelWalk.com
