Ole Miss Football: 5 reasons to be optimistic about 2019 after spring

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OXFORD, MS – SEPTEMBER 15: Damien Harris #34 of the Alabama Crimson Tide runs with the ball as Mohamed Sanogo #46 of the Mississippi Rebels defends during the first half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium on September 15, 2018 in Oxford, Mississippi. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

5. Defensive improvement

It seems almost cliche to talk about Ole Miss and defensive improvement at this point, mostly because Rebel coaches and fans have been looking for any signs of life in every season since 2016.

The bottom finally fell out last year leading to the dismissal of Wesley McGriff as defensive coordinator. New coordinator Mike MacIntyre (more on him in a bit) is installing a 3-4 defense which should be what the Rebels need.

Ole Miss has longer, quicker defensive ends that can be used really well in this scheme.

The backbone of the defense will be linebacker Mohamed Sanogo who was one of the best defensive players the Rebels had last year. As a sophomore, he led the team in tackles with 112.

Look for others such as Kevontaé Ruggs at outside linebacker and Qaadir Sheppard at end/linebacker to make impacts as well. Newcomers such as Sam Williams and Lakia Henry will be counted on to make immediate contributions.

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