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Fraternizing with the enemy: Talking the Egg Bowl with Jordan Merritt

The time has come for Mississippi State to play...that team. So to learn more about them, I did some fraternizing with the enemy.

By Andrew Miller

Nov 23, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Jaxson Dart (2) runs with the ball against the Florida Gators during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Nov 23, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Jaxson Dart (2) runs with the ball against the Florida Gators during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images / Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
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Q: Tre Harris is obviously a superstar, though he’s battled injuries. Who are the other skill players to know on offense?

Harris has been outstanding for the Rebels since arriving in Oxford. However, aside from the second half against Florida, the offense has performed better without him, with Jaxson Dart spreading the ball out more.

Sophomore Cayden Lee has been the one to step up in his absence. He's not the biggest wide receiver, but he runs smooth routes out of the slot, creating separation constantly. Tight end Dae'Quan Wright has also stepped up down the stretch.

Q: We’re used to the Rebels gashing teams on the ground, but the rushing attack has fallen off considerably. What do you most attribute this to?

A: The offensive line has struggled to create gaps for our running backs. I guess that's why Kiffin chose to use a speedy wide receiver/return specialist against Florida to get to the outside quicker. That also could have worked out better.

Sometimes, Kiffin also moved away from it too quickly, possibly due to his lack of confidence in our players. The running backs haven't performed as well as expected in SEC play, but the problems start at the offensive line position.

Q: Ole Miss allowed 14 sacks combined in their three losses. Is the key for stopping this team getting pressure on Jaxson Dart?

A: Yes. When Dart has time, he's one of the best passers in the nation. However, adding some pressure, causing him to rush his processing and mechanics, can cause problems.

The offensive line has been better in pass protection than the run game, but it is still inconsistent. Against Georgia, they countered their pass rush by scheming quick pass plays, something that did not work against Florida. MSU will need to dial up pressure to stop the Rebels offense.

Next: Q&A Cont.

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