Rebels vs. Bulldogs Week 13: Keys to the Game

The Ole Miss Rebels finish the regular season with a home matchup against in-state rivals Mississippi State.

The Ole Miss Rebels wrap up the regular season on Nov. 23 against Mississippi State at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The Bulldogs will be starting a new era for 2023 as Zach Arnett begins his first season at the helm as head coach.

Arnett makes the transition from defensive coordinator to head coach and is helped by the return of quarterback Will Rogers and his aggressive and experienced defense. The offense could see some growing pains since they're transitioning from Mike Leach's Air Raid style to a more balanced attack.

Kevin Barbay takes over as the Bulldogs' offensive coordinator and will bring a much different-looking offense than Mississippi State fans are used to seeing. Because of this, the defense should be the strength of the team in 2023. Matt Brock has been promoted from linebackers coach to defensive coordinator, and very little should change from a season ago scheme-wise.

Mississippi State wins if: The Bulldogs' defense can stand up against the Rebels hopefully potent offense and if the transition from the Air Raid offense goes smoothly. With the returning starters on both sides of the ball, the Bulldogs have a good shot to gel early and often.

Ole Miss wins if: The offense continues its offensive development under Jaxson Dart deep into the season. Last year, the Rebels benefited from a pushover of a schedule in the first half. They won't enjoy that this year, playing Tulane, Alabama, LSU, and Arkansas in the first six weeks. But if the offense gels early, they've got a chance in later games too.

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