Oklahoma Vs. Ole Miss: Player Grades

Nuigalway Admin

You need 4 min read

·

Post on Oct 27, 2024

37 visitor like this post

Share

Oklahoma vs. Ole Miss: Player Grades - A Tale of Two Halves

The 2023 season opener for both Oklahoma and Ole Miss saw a clash of styles and a game that ultimately hinged on a single, decisive play. While the final score might suggest a comfortable win for the Rebels, the game itself was a rollercoaster ride filled with dramatic shifts in momentum. Here's a breakdown of the players and their performances, graded on a scale of A to F, reflecting their contributions to the thrilling 31-24 Ole Miss victory.

Oklahoma

Offense:

• Dillon Gabriel (QB): B+ - Gabriel started strong, showcasing his arm talent with some accurate throws and a knack for extending plays. However, he struggled in the second half, throwing an interception and looking less confident under pressure.
• Eric Gray (RB): A- - Gray was a workhorse, carrying the load for the Sooners with a consistent performance. He racked up yards and kept the offense moving, though a lack of touchdowns hampered his overall grade.
• Marvin Mims (WR): B - Mims was a threat on the deep ball and showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the first half. However, the Ole Miss secondary tightened up in the second half, limiting his impact.
• Offensive Line: C+ - The offensive line displayed mixed results. They created running lanes for Gray early, but struggled to contain the Ole Miss pass rush in the second half, leading to pressure on Gabriel and contributing to his struggles.

Defense:

• Danny Stutsman (LB): B+ - Stutsman was a force in the middle of the field, displaying impressive tackling ability and making his presence felt throughout the game. He was particularly effective in the first half, but couldn't single-handedly contain the Ole Miss offense.
• Defensive Line: C - The defensive line struggled to generate consistent pressure on the Ole Miss quarterback. While they showed flashes of disruption, they weren't able to consistently penetrate the line of scrimmage.
• Secondary: C- - The secondary allowed too many big plays through the air, particularly in the second half. They struggled to cover Ole Miss's receivers, leading to some crucial breakdowns in coverage.

Ole Miss

Offense:

• Jaxson Dart (QB): A- - Dart made his mark with a sensational performance, particularly in the second half. He displayed accuracy, mobility, and the ability to make plays when pressured. His ability to orchestrate the offense and create opportunities for his teammates earned him the highest grade on the Ole Miss side.
• Quinshon Judkins (RB): B+ - Judkins showcased his power running style, consistently gaining yards and demonstrating a physical presence. He was a key factor in the Rebels' ability to control the clock and establish a ground presence.
• Malik Heath (WR): A - Heath dominated the Oklahoma secondary, consistently finding open space and making big plays. His ability to make catches in traffic and gain yards after the catch made him a huge threat and a crucial contributor to the Ole Miss victory.
• Offensive Line: A- - The offensive line provided excellent protection for Dart, opening up running lanes for Judkins, and allowing the Ole Miss offense to thrive. They deserve credit for their performance in a game where the offensive line often dictates the outcome.

Defense:

• JJ Pegues (DE): B+ - Pegues displayed a relentless effort, pressuring the Oklahoma quarterback and forcing him into mistakes. His ability to get to the quarterback and disrupt the flow of the offense made him a valuable asset for the Rebels.
• Linebackers: B - The Ole Miss linebackers were solid in the second half, limiting the effectiveness of the Oklahoma run game and making plays in the passing game. Their overall performance contributed significantly to the defensive success of the Rebels.
• Secondary: B+ - The Ole Miss secondary stepped up after a shaky start, limiting the big plays and securing crucial interceptions. Their adjustments in the second half proved to be a game-changer and a vital component of the Rebels' victory.

The Turning Point: A Play That Defined the Game

The turning point in the game came in the second quarter when Ole Miss's defensive back, Ladarius Tennison, intercepted a Dillon Gabriel pass. This crucial turnover not only shifted momentum but also gave Ole Miss a much-needed boost on their way to victory.

Conclusion

The Oklahoma vs. Ole Miss game was a thrilling and unpredictable affair that highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. While Oklahoma started strong, Ole Miss ultimately triumphed with a dominant performance in the second half. This game was a testament to the unpredictable nature of college football and the importance of making key plays in crucial moments.