Rebels’ Offense Shines Against Tough Penn State Defense
The Ole Miss Rebels showcased their offensive prowess in a commanding 38-25 victory over the Penn State Nittany Lions in the Peach Bowl. Despite facing a defense that had only allowed an average of 223 yards per game, the Rebels amassed an impressive 540 yards of offense. Quarterback Jaxson Dart led the charge, throwing three touchdowns to secure the win for Ole Miss.
Ole Miss Celebrates Historic 11-Win Season
This victory also marked a significant milestone for the Rebels, as it propelled them to their first-ever 11-win season. Under the guidance of fourth-year coach Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss has experienced a remarkable turnaround. In just two seasons, the team went from winning 10 games to achieving an unprecedented level of success. Coach Kiffin is optimistic about the future, stating, “I really do believe we’re just getting started… We’re on our way to something really special.”
Penn State Cites Challenges Leading Up to the Game
On the other side, Penn State coach James Franklin acknowledged the various challenges his team faced in the lead-up to the Peach Bowl. He attributed the team’s performance to “too many moving parts, staff and players,” including players opting out and recent changes to his offensive and defensive coordinators. These factors may have contributed to the Nittany Lions’ struggle against the dominant Ole Miss offense.
Standout Performance by Ole Miss Tight End Caden Prieskorn
Tight end Caden Prieskorn was the star of the game, accounting for three touchdowns. This unexpected performance from Prieskorn, who announced his return for the 2024 season, added an extra layer of surprise to the Rebels’ victory. Throughout the regular season, Prieskorn had showcased his skills with 20 catches and two touchdowns for 313 yards.
Ole Miss Shows SEC Dominance
As the final whistle blew, the Ole Miss team chanted “S-E-C! S-E-C!” to celebrate their victory over a Big Ten opponent. This win further solidifies the Southeastern Conference’s reputation as a powerhouse in college football. The Rebels’ success against a tough Penn State defense highlights the strength of SEC teams.
Looking Ahead to the Future
Ole Miss is set to open the 2024 season at home against Furman, with high hopes for continued success. Meanwhile, the Nittany Lions will kick off their next season on August 31st, facing West Virginia. Both teams will undoubtedly be looking to build on their performances in the Peach Bowl and carry their momentum into the upcoming season.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.