It sounds like the Ole Miss Rebels are in better shape than expected heading into their crucial showdown with LSU, particularly with the status upgrades on Akelo Stone, Louis Moore, and Jeremy James. Stone and Moore have been key contributors on defense, and their availability will be important in containing LSU’s explosive offense, which has been a major factor in their success this season.
Jeremy James’ status is especially promising. While he hasn’t played since breaking his hand before Week 2, the fact that he suited up last week but didn’t play suggests he’s close to returning. Having him back in the lineup would be a huge boost to the Rebels’ offensive line, especially in a game of this magnitude.
With the injury list shortened, it seems the Rebels are gearing up as best they can for what feels like a make-or-break game in terms of postseason hopes. If James and the other key players are cleared to play, it could give Ole Miss a better chance to pull off a victory against a tough LSU squad.
James’ status has been officially changed from iffy to questionable, as expected, but he should be available for the Rebels on Saturday night.
Ole Miss
CB Cedrick Beavers (out)
Izaiah Hartrup (WR) and Logan Diggs (RB) are both out.
LT Jayden Williams (Out)
RB Matt Jones (DOUBTFUL).
OL Jeremy James (QUESTIONABLE).
DT: Akelo Stone (QUESTIONABLE)
DE Princely Umanmielen. (QUESTIONABLE)
WR Tre Harris (QUESTIONABLE).
DT: JJ Pegues (QUESTIONABLE)
S. Louis Moore (PROBABLE)
The new SEC availability reporting rule adds a layer of transparency to the conference, ensuring that teams provide consistent updates on player status in the days leading up to the game. With penalties for inaccuracies, schools are incentivized to deliver precise injury reports, which can impact game preparation and betting lines.
For Ole Miss, heading into their highly anticipated road matchup against No. 10 LSU, having accurate information on key players like Akelo Stone, Louis Moore, and Jeremy James will be critical. The Rebels are slight 2.5-point road favorites, and with a 6:30 p.m. CT kickoff, fans can catch the action on ABC or ESPN+, or listen via the Ole Miss Radio Network. Given the magnitude of this game—arguably a postseason elimination clash—the availability updates leading up to the game will play a significant role in shaping expectations for both teams.
It will be interesting to see the final reports closer to game time and how they might shift the line or impact game plans. Both teams need every edge in what promises to be a hard-fought SEC battle.