Kentucky (2-2, 0-2 SEC) is set to face off against No. 6 Mississippi (4-0, 0-0) on Saturday at 12 p.m. ET, with Ole Miss favored to win by 17 1/2 points. Ole Miss leads the series between the two teams with a record of 29-14-1.
Are the Rebels a legitimate contender this season? They have dominated in their first four games, outscoring their opponents by an impressive +198 margin. Despite facing weaker nonconference teams, Ole Miss has shown potential as a playoff team and a strong contender in the SEC. On the other hand, Kentucky nearly pulled off an upset against then-No. 1 Georgia and is now looking to make a statement on the road.
A key matchup to watch is between Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart, the nation’s leading passer, and Kentucky’s formidable defense. Dart has thrown for 1,554 yards and 12 touchdowns this season, facing off against a Wildcats defense that has allowed only two passing touchdowns so far. Kentucky’s Zion Childress leads the defense with 17 tackles, including five for a loss.
Keep an eye on Kentucky’s quarterback Brock Vandagriff, who will need to find success against Ole Miss’ strong run defense. Vandagriff, a transfer from Georgia, is looking to improve his passing game after a slow start in the season. Meanwhile, Ole Miss receiver Tre Harris is a player to watch after his outstanding performance against Georgia Southern with 225 yards and two touchdowns.
Notable facts and figures include Ole Miss setting a record as the first SEC team with four consecutive games of 600+ total offensive yards. Kentucky’s defense has been impressive, holding all four opponents under 300 total yards, the longest streak since 2019. The Wildcats have only allowed 50 points through four games, their lowest since 2008. Ole Miss holds a 10-game winning streak at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, outscoring opponents by an average of 32.9 points. Coach Lane Kiffin of Ole Miss is seeking his 100th career win, currently standing at 99-49.
Follow the action between Kentucky and Ole Miss to see if the Rebels can continue their dominant streak or if the Wildcats can pull off an upset on the road.