Three Rebels to Watch as Ole Miss Faces Kentucky in Week Two

OXFORD, Miss. — Ole Miss football started the new season with a strong performance, beating Georgia State at the Vaught, 63-7. There were some top performances on both sides of the ball, and the Rebels’ confidence should be high as they head into game two this Saturday.

Next up, the Rebels get into SEC play as they face Kentucky in Lexington. Here are three players that I’m keeping an eye on this weekend.

Jaylon Braxton, Defensive Back

This may not materialize as there is still a danger that Jaylon Braxton will not suit up against Kentucky. Lane Kiffin confirmed he missed the Georgia State game due to a medical situation and indicated in his Monday presser he is hopeful he would be back for the trip to Lexington. It’s worth noting, however, Kiffin is known for not releasing medical information about players.

We will keep our eyes out on the SEC Availability Report and let you know what Braxton’s status is as the week progresses.

The talented DB transferred in from Arkansas this offseason, and there is tremendous excitement around him. A versatile player who can play safety and cornerback, he could be a chess piece for defensive coordinator Pete Golding. Injuries have halted his progress, but when he does step on the field in a Rebel jersey, I can’t wait to see what he can do.

Zxavian Harris, Defensive Lineman

Zxavian Harris is one of the most experienced players on the roster. He is always a player you can’t take your eyes off, playing with high energy and getting into the backfield seemingly with ease. Harris managed the only sack in week one, but I’ll be watching him for another reason.

The Mississippi native is one blocked kick away from tying the SEC career record. He currently has six after his fingers helped with a missed field goal by the Panthers on Saturday. It’s something I will keep an eye on every game this season, but I thought it deserved a mention.

Kewan Lacy and Logan Diggs, Running Backs

Okay, I cheated and put down an extra name, but I can’t be excited about one and not the other. After a down year at the running back position, it could be about to hit another sky-high season. Yes, it’s only one game, but watching Kewan Lacy and Logan Diggs against Georgia State had me looking forward to SEC play and seeing what they could do.

Lacy was super impressive Saturday, scoring three touchdowns along with a 100-yard rushing game. The Rebels have plenty of other running backs in the room, so competition for snaps is high. Could that help keep production high?

Next Up

Ole Miss and Kentucky face off Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT in Lexington. The game will be broadcast on ABC.