The Ole Miss Rebels are heading into the 2024 season with high expectations, especially on the defensive side of the ball. After a successful 2023 campaign that saw the team achieve its highest win total in program history, the Rebels have bolstered their roster with key additions through the transfer portal. However, there are still a few areas where the defense must improve to reach its full potential and compete against the elite teams in college football. 
Strengthening the Secondary
One of the biggest concerns for the Ole Miss defense heading into 2024 is the depth in the secondary. While the team has added talented players like Isaiah Hamilton from Houston to fill the other cornerback spot opposite Trey Amos, depth issues remain a challenge across the secondary[4]. With teams increasingly relying on nickel and dime packages, having a solid rotation of 11 to 15 players in the secondary is crucial[4]. The Rebels will need to address this depth concern to ensure they can match up against the passing attacks of top opponents.
Improving Run Defense
Another area where the Ole Miss defense must improve is against the run. While the team has added talented players like Florida’s Princely Umanmielen and Texas A&M’s Walter Nolen to bolster the interior defensive line[4], the run defense remains a point of emphasis. Defensive lineman Jared Ivey, who provides an update on the team’s new and improved front seven during spring camp[5], will be a key player in leading the charge against opposing rushing attacks.
Increasing Turnovers
The Ole Miss defense must also focus on creating more turnovers in 2024. While the team has made significant improvements to its personnel, generating takeaways will be crucial in close games against top opponents. The addition of players like Chris Partridge and Trey Amos[4] should help the defense become more opportunistic and disruptive, but the players will need to execute at a high level to make a difference on the scoreboard.
Maintaining Discipline
Finally, the Ole Miss defense must maintain discipline throughout the season. With high expectations and a challenging schedule, the team cannot afford to make costly mistakes or penalties that could swing the momentum of games. Head coach Lane Kiffin has emphasized the importance of discipline and execution, and the defense will need to heed his message to reach its full potential.
In conclusion, while the Ole Miss Rebels have made significant improvements to their defense through the transfer portal, there are still a few areas where the unit must improve to compete against the elite teams in college football. Strengthening the secondary, improving run defense, increasing turnovers, and maintaining discipline will be key focus areas for the defense in 2024. If the Rebels can address these issues and execute at a high level, they have the potential to make a deep run in the newly expanded 12-team playoff[4].