OXFORD, Miss. — Ole Miss coaches have trumpeted what they believe is quality depth on the defensive line. Turns out they’ll need it from the opening kick Saturday night.
Interim coach Matt Luke had hoped defensive end Qaadir Shepherd, a transfer from Syracuse, would return from an ankle injury and be ready for South Alabama. That’s not likely to happen. Luke called Shepherd “probably out” following Wednesday’s practice.
The Rebels are looking for a solid rush from the right defensive front to balance the play of senior Marquis Haynes on the other side. Haynes likely will become the school’s career leader in sacks and tackles for loss by the middle of the season.