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The University of Mississippi Athletics
Preseason Report 09.01: Rebels Focus In On Gamecocks
9/1/2010 | Football
Sept. 1, 2010
OXFORD, Miss. - With only two days remaining before the season opener against Jacksonville State, the Rebels took to the field on Wednesday in shorts and helmets for a spirited workout in preparation for the weekend contest.
"It was a really good day today," said Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt. "We took care of the ball today and played with a lot of energy and passion. I was excited about today. We had hustle and enthusiasm and everyone just encouraging each other. We looked good today."
And with only two practices remaining before the opening contest of the 2010 campaign, Nutt remained excited about what his quarterbacks bring to the field with them.
"Nathan Stanley knows our playbook," Nutt said. "He has a spring under his belt and played in the Cotton Bowl. He's going to be all right. I feel good about Randall Mackey. He has really come on. He'd really be something special if he'd gotten here in January, but he's come so far along in his 29 opportunities."
And with the performance of the two quarterbacks in practice, Nutt didn't rule out that both quarterbacks could see the field on Saturday.
"You have to go with the flow and the feel, and who is moving the team," Nutt said. "I have a lot of confidence right now in Nathan. We'll get him going first and then let's see what happens."
With Kentrell Lockett missing practice for health reasons, Nutt commented on the play of Gerald Rivers on the defensive front.
"Gerald Rivers has done an excellent job," Nutt said. "It's time for him to come on. He's done a good job for us."
Nutt also said that the leadership displayed by other players in the absence of an emotional leader like Lockett has excited him.
"It's tough, but that's why I felt good about today's practice," Nutt said. "I felt they really went to another level. (Kentrell) was voted our first captain. He's an outstanding guy, but that's why you appreciate Jonathan Cornell, Johnny Brown and Lionel Breaux. Those guys have taken over a big role."
On Thursday, Nutt and the Rebel football team will join the marching band, spirit groups and special guests for a pep rally, which begins at 6 p.m. in the south endzone of Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and the public should enter through Gates 1-4 and Gate 31. Fan seating for the pep rally will be in sections S3 through S9.
Saturday's season opener against Jacksonville State is set for a 2:30 p.m. CT kickoff. A limited number of tickets remains, and fans are encouraged to act now by visiting the OleMissSports.com ticket site or calling 662-915-7167 or 1-888-732-8587 (in state).
