Ole Miss will be led by new head coach Pete Golding. | Sean Dougherty

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Following the winningest season in program history and a 8.49 BiteScore in 2025, Ole Miss enters the 2026 season ready to begin a new era under head coach Pete Golding.

After Lane Kiffin’s departure, the Rebels face the challenge of remaining among the SEC’s contenders while adjusting to new leadership. Fortunately for Golding, Ole Miss returns plenty of talent and added another strong transfer class to help ease the transition.

On the offensive side of the ball, there is no doubt the Rebels have the talent to make noise once again. Dual-threat quarterback Trinidad Chambliss returns under center, while standout running back Kewan Lacy is back to lead the rushing attack.

Chambliss will also have plenty of weapons at his disposal. Senior Johntay Cook II, who transferred after stops at Texas and Syracuse, is expected to emerge as Ole Miss’ top receiver. The Rebels also added Traylon Ray from West Virginia and Deuce Alexander from Wake Forest, giving the receiver room even more speed, size and experience.

Defensively, the Rebels have a chance to be one of the nation’s best.

Junior Suntarine Perkins returns as the leader of the defense and will once again be expected to create pressure in the backfield. Golding also bolstered the unit through the transfer portal, adding edge rusher Jordan Renaud and defensive tackle Jaheim Oatis from Alabama, edge rusher Blake Purchase from Oregon and cornerback Jalyn Crawford from Auburn.

With Golding’s defensive background, expect Ole Miss to build its identity around pressuring opposing quarterbacks while limiting the run on early downs.

The Rebels’ schedule, however, leaves little room for error. Matchups against Louisville, LSU, Florida, Georgia, Alabama and rival Mississippi State will test this team throughout the season.

If Golding can guide the Rebels through that schedule, a 10-2 finish feels well within reach, with Georgia and LSU appearing to be likely losses. Ole Miss has the talent to earn a spot in the College Football Playoff.

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