Southern Illinois-Ole Miss Preview: New QB Starter for the Rebels This Week

Last week for the Rebels went down in a bitter loss to BYU. But week 1 is over and that is behind them, and Houston Nutt wants them ready for next weeks game vs. SIU. 

Defense:

The Rebels defense played really well, had an interception for a TD by Charles Sawyer, also Saftey Damien Jackson had 13 tackles. I think this week they need to step up a bit on defense and cause more turnovers—something Ole Miss lacked last year was getting turnovers. This year they have to gain turnovers if they want to win ball games.

Offense:

The offense had their up and downs vs. BYU. We didn't need for Brandon Bolden to leave the game with a fractured left ankle, but that's football. Bolden was predicted to have a great 1,000+ yard year. He will be in a boot(not a cast) for a few weeks and they will see where he is from there. Sadly, I don't see him returning anytime soon. Jeff Scott and Enrique Davis will have to step up and take over the RB spot.

Barry Brunetti started the game and didn't help the Rebs offense out at all. After a few unsuccessful drives, Houston Nutt put in Zack Stoudt. 13-25, 140 yards, Stoudt barely went over 50 percent, but did play well for his first FBS snap. he set up some really nice throws to the Rebels recievers. He also set up a pretty pass down field that was dropped by the true freshman Nickolas Brassell, and should have been a touchdown.

QB Situation:

Houston Nutt has announced that Zack Stoudt will start vs SIU. He said if he plays well in that game, he could become the starter, but coach said he is  still looking at all three. Randell Mackey was suspended for the first game, so it looks like Mackey may get a chance to play in this game as well. Also look for Barry Brunetti to take a few snaps in the game.

SIU:

Southern Illinois comes off a win against Southeastern Missouri 38-10. QB Paul McIntosh had 300 yards alone in the game. He went 14-18, 246 yards passing, also 10 carries for 65 yards. WR Cam Fuller had only three receptions for 112 yards and a TD. RB Jewel Hampton had 14 Carries for 67 yards and three TD's.

Ole Miss' defense should keep SIU's offense under control. I think Ole Miss' offense is a little too fast for SIU's defense. The OL for the Rebs is just too big and should keep the QB safe and give him plenty of time to throw. This is time for Zack Stoudt to learn a little bit more about the Rebels offense before starting the SEC games.

 My final score prediction is Ole Miss wins it 31-10. Hotty Toddy!!