4/19 Spring Analysis - Ole Miss Spring Game

Opinions, analysis, and information about during the spring session. ... What's going on in spring ball?

By Guinn Terry Davis

Ole Miss Rebels Spring Game: Cotton and Defense Stand Out

There were many questions going into spring training for the Rebels. The Grove Bowl, the Rebels nomenclature for the spring game, resolved a lot of those questions, but some still remain for now.

With junior signal-caller Jevan Snead bolting for the NFL, the biggest concern was who would assume the opening and if he could be a bit more consistent. If the spring game was any indicator of the squad the Rebels will produce in the fall, then it appears that Raymond Cotton may be the guy to get the first go. Cotton, a redshirt freshmen, was hampered in the early part of the spring as a result of a partially torn labrum in his throwing shoulder. However, that did not prevent him from taking command of the offense on Saturday's scrimmage. He finished having completed over 70 percent of his passes and two scores.

Sophomore Nathan Stanley, who is competing with Cotton for the quarterback position, had been playing with the first team for most the spring session. Unfortunately, with two interceptions in Saturday's scrimmage, his stock may have lowered a bit. To be fair, though, Stanley suffered from a mild quadriceps contusion this past week, but it did not appear affected by in the game. He also is ahead in familiarity with the offense. For now, it appears that Cotton certainly took the biggest stride, but he must be consistent if he wants the starting nod come Labor day weekend.

On the defensive side of the ball, the biggest question proffered at the start of spring was “will this year's defense be as good as last years?” Well, the first team front seven held the the back-up offense in check for most the day. The only touchdown that was scored on the first team defense was a 80-yard bomb touchdown strike in the second quarter. Although playing one's own second team offense is not a proper evaluation tool, it is important to note that last year's defensive squad did not allow the second-team offense to score at all. So aside from the long touchdown pass, it appears that this year's defense is picking up from where last year's defense left off.

One question that remains unanswered is who will be the replacement of Dexter McCluster. The Rebels have solid power running backs in Brandon Bolden and Enrique Davis, but there is no heir apparent for the speed-style running game that McCluster brought to the table. Some possibilities are sophomore Jesse Grandy, who saw significant playing time last year, and redshirt freshman Korvic Neat. Honorable mention goes to junior Derrick Hermann, who switched from being a defensive back, also made strides at the running back position. However, with no one solidifying the spot, the door has been left open for one of the talented freshmen coming in the fall.

The Rebels can walk away from the spring feeling optimistic about their chances to be competitive in the SEC this fall, but, like most teams at this point, still have work to do from now until then.