1. How much will Missouri’s pass rush affect Ole Miss, and how will the Rebels counter?
Matt Sigler (@SigNewton_2): I think the pass rush from Missouri is going to play a big factor in this game. When a team comes in leading the conference in sacks, there is an obvious concern for your offensive line as far as protecting the quarterback. I think Ole Miss will counter with a short passing game, which will make quarterback Bo Wallace not have to hold the ball too long and also try to keep the Tigers honest. If the defensive ends are getting up field too much, I can see the Rebels hitting them with a few delayed draw plays.
Cody Thomason (@TheCodyThomason): Missouri’s pass rush should have a large effect. They generate most of it through their defensive line without having to blitz, meaning they can have more players back to cover but still get to the quarterback. Ole Miss can counter by running quick passes to get the ball out of Bo Wallace’s hands fast.
David Collier (@DavidLCollier): It could play a major role in the game if Bo Wallace doesn’t get the offensive line into the correct protections and doesn’t make good decisions with the ball. Wallace has improved with his decision making this season, but if he constantly has pressure in his face, he’s more likely to serve up an easy interception. Ole Miss will have to be able to run the ball and use their read-option game to slow down those defensive ends.
2. James Franklin is making his first start after missing four starts due to a shoulder injury. Will his return impact the game?
Sigler: I think so. Franklin is a guy who is just a pure playmaker, both with his feet and arm. A dual-threat guy like that cannot be overlooked. However, I do anticipate seeing Maty Mauk get action as well at quarterback.
Thomason: Most likely. He and fellow quarterback Maty Mauk will be splitting time, so if he does well, he adds another dimension to their offense. If he struggles, then I think Mizzou will give more time to Mauk, especially down the stretch. So if Franklin comes back from his injury strong, then expect him to play a big role; if he struggles, expect him to spend a lot of time on the bench.
Collier: No doubt. When healthy, Franklin is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the country. He took five snaps –– all handoffs –– against Kentucky two weeks ago. If he wasn’t healthy, why would Missouri even put him in the game? He’s had two more weeks of rest since then, so Franklin will be good to go. Maybe his arm is a little rusty at first, but the threat he possesses with his feet will surely impact what Ole Miss’ defense will try to do.
3. Ole Miss’ offense has shown it struggles when they can’t run the ball very well, and Missouri brings one of the top defenses against the run in the conference. If the Rebels struggle running the ball, can Bo Wallace carry the offense?
Sigler: I think Wallace and the receiving corps can carry the offense, but ultimately, it comes down to the offensive line giving him enough time to make something happen. If the run is stuffed and the Rebels are forced to air it out, I don’t think Wallace will have a problem with that considering his much improved turnover margin from last season.
Thomason: If Ole Miss cannot establish a run game, I think the passing game will suffer as well. Wallace has performed admirably the last few games, but if his running backs don’t generate some offense, Mizzou will be able to key in on the pass, making it very difficult for Wallace to carry the offense.
Collier: Yes. He’s proven that this year, especially the past few weeks. Ole Miss’ offense obviously is more effective when they are running the ball at will and Wallace is crisp in the passing game, but if he has to, Wallace can throw it 50 times and make the offense work. The problem will be limiting any turnovers against a defense that feasts on interceptions.
4. What is the key for Ole Miss to get another win over a top-10 team?
Sigler: Ole Miss will have to play their best football for 60 minutes to beat this Missouri team. There are a few keys that I see this game coming down to. First, the Ole Miss secondary must be able to hang with the big receivers of Missouri. Second, the offense must limit turnovers. And lastly, the Rebels will have to be able to match Missouri score for score and not fall behind in a shootout, which I believe this game will be.
Thomason: Stop Missouri’s offense. Mizzou hasbeen great through the air all season and boasts an impressive receiving core, which will give Ole Miss a lot of trouble. In addition to this, they have a solid run game too, so Ole Miss will have their hands full the whole game. If Ole Miss can slow this offense, then an upset is obtainable.
Collier: Just play. If Ole Miss plays their game, they’ll have a shot. It’s a major opportunity on prime-time national television. If you lose, so what? Move on. Missouri is the one with something to lose in this matchup, so make the first punch and make them play from behind.
