Last year, the Ole Miss Rebels were the surprise team of the SEC football season, according to many experts.
However,
The Nightly Daily told its readers last summer that the Rebels would likely be the conference's dark horse team (
click here to read that prediction).
Ole Miss did not disappoint as it posted a 9-4 record that included an upset of eventual national champion Florida in the Swamp and a pasting of Texas Tech in the Cotton Bowl. With quarterback Jevan Snead returning, the stars look aligned for a magical 2009 season.
However, Rebels' fans need to come down to earth somewhat. The SEC Western Division is the tougher of the conference's two divisions. Although 15 starters return from last year's team, are the Rebels really better than Alabama or LSU? No.
So, Ole Miss is looking at no better than a third place divisional finish. Additionally, the Rebels will sneak up on nobody this year. The program has gone from being a hunter to being one of the hunted in one season under head coach Houston Nutt. While this is a major step forward, it often causes problems.
The team will win at least eight this year especially when considering its laughable non-conference schedule (at Memphis, vs. Southeastern Louisiana, vs. Alabama-Birmingham, vs. Northern Arizona – what's up with that?).
The Rebels will enjoy a strong season and a good bowl, but nothing magical.
Still, that is something to feel good about.
Last year, the Ole Miss Rebels were the surprise team of the SEC football season, according to many experts. However, The Nightly Daily told its readers last summer that the Rebels would likely be the conference's dark horse team (click here to read that prediction).
1 comment:
You don't mention that we play Bama and LSU at home. If we win one, then we will win the division.
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