Ole Miss stresses physicality ahead of Georgia matchup

Ole Miss coach Pete Golding said the Rebels need to match Georgia’s physicality and contain its running game when the teams meet Saturday in Oxford. Golding spoke with reporters this week alongside linebacker Tah’j Butler, wide receiver Caleb Cunningham and defensive tackle Will Echoles.

Golding praised Georgia coach Kirby Smart’s emphasis on toughness and discipline, and described quarterback Gunner Stockton as an efficient decision-maker who takes what defenses allow. Golding said the Rebels’ defense must play physically at the line, stay sound at the second level and prevent explosive plays.

“If you can’t stop the run versus those guys, it’s a long night,” Golding said, referring to lessons from Ole Miss’ two games against Georgia last season.

With the first College Football Playoff rankings due to be released, Golding said the team is focused on its weekly preparation rather than outside factors. He said the Rebels believe they control their chances each Saturday and must make the most of their work during the week.

Golding also credited the home crowd for helping Ole Miss at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Cunningham, a Mississippi native, said the players draw energy from the fans and praised receivers coach L’Damian Washington for pushing him to improve.

Golding pointed to Cunningham’s growth since arriving from high school and cited Butler’s contributions when linebacker Luke Ferrelli was unable to play. He praised Butler’s football awareness and tackling, and commended Echoles’ character.

Butler said the Rebels expect a physical contest and must meet Georgia’s intensity. The New Orleans native, who transferred from Georgia Tech, said he watched last season’s Sugar Bowl matchup from home and is eager to play in the Oxford atmosphere.

Echoles said the Georgia game carries special meaning after last season’s Sugar Bowl, where he said he made a name for himself. He added that the team is treating each remaining game like a playoff contest.

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