By Adam Brown
Sports Editor
adam.brown@hottytoddy.com.
The Ole Miss Rebels open up conference play this Saturday as they host No. 1 Alabama inside the Vaught.
On Monday, coach Matt Luke met with the local media at his weekly press conference to discuss the first SEC matchup.
Ole Miss (2-0) comes into the week after a strong offensive showing, defeating Southern Illinois 76-41.
“I’m excited about the challenge and to have a big game,” Luke said. “I know the Grove will be rockin’ and Vaught-Hemingway will be a great atmosphere.”
The Rebels have a few injuries from the SIU game. Luke said DaMarkus Lodge and Tariqious Tisdale are in concussion protocol, and Kevontae’ Ruggs, Ben Dukes and Jacquez Jones are “a little banged up” but projects they will play.
Alabama brings a talented quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, as well as a powerhouse of an offense and defense to Oxford this Saturday.
“(Tagovailoa) has the ability to make good decisions with the RPO stuff and quick release,” Luke said. “He has very good receivers to throw to. After their first touchdown against Louisville, he extended plays with his feet and kept the drive going on third down.”
Kickoff for this SEC West division showdown is slated for 6 p.m. on ESPN.
