Nick Saban, the renowned college football coach with a storied career that includes stints at Kent State, Syracuse, West Virginia, Ohio State, Navy, Michigan State, Toledo, LSU, and Alabama, has recently made headlines with his comments about the Ole Miss Rebels. Saban, who enjoyed significant success during his time with Alabama, where he worked alongside notable coaches like Kirby Smart, Lane Kiffin, Steve Sarkisian, Mike Locksley, and Billy Napier, shared his thoughts on Ole Miss’s potential for the upcoming season.
In a recent appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Saban spoke highly of Lane Kiffin’s coaching at Ole Miss. He acknowledged that the Rebels have struggled with their offensive line in the past, but he believes they have the capability to “match up with anybody” this season. Saban highlighted that despite Ole Miss’s previous challenges against teams like Georgia and Alabama, which were partly due to their struggles upfront, the team has the skill and quarterback talent to compete at a high level.
Saban clarified a common misconception, noting that he never made a specific quote about Kiffin but reiterated his belief that Ole Miss is set to have a strong season. He commended Kiffin as one of the best play-callers in the nation and expressed confidence that the Rebels will present a formidable challenge to their opponents.
For the 2024 season, Ole Miss boasts several key returning players, including quarterback Jaxson Dart, wide receivers Tre Harris and Jordan Watkins, running back Ulysses Bentley IV, and tight end Caden Prieskorn. Additionally, the team has bolstered its roster with significant transfers such as former South Carolina wideout Juice Wells, former Texas A&M defensive lineman Walter Nolen, former Florida edge rusher Princely Umanmielen, and former Miami running back Henry Parrish.
Ole Miss is set to kick off their season against the Furman Paladins on August 31, with the game scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET on SEC Network+ and ESPN+. With these new additions and returning talent, the Rebels are poised to make a strong impact this year, and Saban’s endorsement adds to the anticipation surrounding their 2024 campaign.