Adam Brown
Sports Editor
adam.brown@hottytoddy.com
The Ole Miss Rebels football team is gearing up for their 2019 home opener against the Arkansas Razorbacks on Saturday night.
Head coach Matt Luke held his weekly press conference Monday in which he discussed the 15-10 loss to Memphis and having to use what they learned in preparation for the upcoming test.
“This season is like every year as you make the biggest improvement from the first week to the second,” Luke said. “Especially like a young team like we have… that will be very important.”
Ole Miss’ (0-1) defense played well with a few penalties here and there. It gives the team a lot to build upon heading into Arkansas.
“Offensively it was not what we expected (against Memphis),” Luke said. “I think we got the right pieces in place and we are going to get them better.”
The Rebels coaching staff plains to put the players in a better position, as well, and more guys will take the field against the Razorbacks on the o-line like Nick Broker.
“Just think we need to get better on that side of the ball in a hurry,” he said.
The Rebels came out of the first game healthy with one exception of junior wide receiver Braylon Sanders going down with an injured hamstring, according to Luke.
Arkansas will be rolling into Oxford with a 1-0 record after they defeated Portland State 20-13 to open up the season.
“I have a lot of respect for coach Morris,” Luke said. “They are a really good football team.”
The Razorbacks have a very veteran group of players on the defensive side of the ball, according to Luke.
“We are glad to be back home at the Vaught and looking forward to the challenge,” Luke said.
Ole Miss fans can watch the Rebels take on the Razorbacks on the SEC Network at 6:30 p.m. Saturday.
