.png&width=32&height=32&type=webp)
The University of Mississippi Athletics
Rebel Preseason Turns Focus Toward Memphis
8/21/2008 | Football
After two days indoors, the Rebels spent their evening on the practice fields, laboring in full pads and anticipating the season opener just nine days away.
"You can tell we're getting closer and closer. They're getting anxious and wanting to hit someone other than their teammates," said Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt. "I'm excited about how we came back and responded today. There was much better focus."
With a Memphis scout team on the field, the team's game preparations have begun, and Nutt said he has some knowledge of their personnel.
"I'm familiar with a lot of the Memphis coaches and players," he said. "I know there are some good athletes. The receivers are excellent. We just don't know that much about the quarterback. Memphis has some very good talent, and they've been winning lately."
On the Rebel defensive front, Nutt said the competition continues at the tackles, where sophomore Lawon Scott and freshman Justin Smith are among the linemen battling for playing time.
"I'm really proud of Lawon," said Nutt." I thought he really did a good job of losing weight this summer. It's paid off for him. Once the news came on Ted Laurent a couple weeks before starting camp, that's when I feel deep down inside he really came on.
"With Justin Smith, you never expect linemen to come in and compete at this early stage, because it's so hard at this level. But he's physical and smart. He knows how to line up. He chases the ball, and fundamentally, he's a little bit further ahead than we anticipated. Coach (Tracy) Rocker has done an excellent job with him."
At linebacker, Nutt said he expects sophomore Jonathan Cornell, who suffered a strained calf on Wednesday, to return to practice on Friday. Nutt also praised the progress of junior transfer Patrick Trahan.
"We're expecting a great deal from him," Nutt said. "He's come on after not being here all summer. I'm really proud of his progress. Coach (Tyrone) Nix has really brought him a long way. Hopefully, he'll be ready to roll. He looks good."
The Aug. 30 encounter between the Rebels and Tigers kicks off at 6 p.m. CT at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. It will mark the fifth straight year for the Mid-South rivals to face in the season opener. Click here for ticket information.
