Ole Miss Football: 5 signees who’ll make an instant impact in 2018

The loss of a productive starting running back like Jordan Wilkins is going to hurt the balance of the Ole Miss offense in 2018. Whether Luke can replace the production lost from Wilkins is the ultimate test.

Wilkins was not just a usual 1,000 yard rusher for the Ole Miss offense. He was the first to do so, while also averaging at least 6.5 yards per carry, since former Kansas City Chiefs do-it-all weapon Dexter McCluster. And, McCluster’s 1,000 yard season came way back in 2009.

Next up for the Rebels is the most experienced rusher returning in 2018, Eric Swinney. However, Swinney is likely to be complimented by Jones County Junior College transfer and three-star running back Scottie Phillips. That’s a potent combination that could develop into something special in the next two seasons.

Phillips is the second best running back in the nation, out of all the JUCO prospects. He chose the Rebels over offers from other top-tier programs like the Miami Hurricanes and LSU Tigers. Most of all, he picked the Rebels over Mississippi State.