These 5 Head-to-Head Battles Will Define Ole Miss Football's Season in 2026

Ole Miss' 2026 schedule features six opponents projected to finish in the top 25, making five head-to-head battles pivotal for the Rebels. The LSU game centers on Deuce Alexander against DJ Pickett, a matchup likely to hinge on Ole Miss' passing game if LSU can clog the run. In week seven, Ole Miss faces Missouri, where Cayden Lee will test corner Jaylon Braxton—two players who know each other well from practice and now square off as rivals. The Texas trip in Austin will put Luke Ferrelli against Arch Manning, a duel that could determine how much pressure the Longhorns can generate. Taken together, these battles frame Ole Miss's season as a test of balance and depth against a slate of proven players.