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September 2, 2011: Football Edition

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Football Guide 2011

PETRE THOMAS | The Daily Mississippian Going home: Brunetti to make first career start Saturday

BY BENNETT HIPP game,” Brunetti said after be- the at Ole Miss, into his starting role. in the stands Saturday after- [email protected] ing named the starting quar- behind the tradition that has “The first couple of days, I noon. terback last week. “Just com- been here, there’s a lot of re- kind of put a little pressure on “It’s a huge distraction,” Saturday afternoon will not ing into this exciting season sponsibility — there’s a lot of me,” Brunetti said. “But over Brunetti said. “It kind of re- arrive soon enough for sopho- and being able to be the first pressure.” the weekend and watching a minds me of high school.” more quarterback Barry Bru- one to take that snap.” Lee went on to say, “He’s lot of film, I kind of got a bet- However, despite the high netti. Since being named the got to be able to shut it out as ter feel for BYU. It put me in a school-like tendencies of his Brunetti played in four games starter last week, Brunetti has the starting quarterback. The more comfortable place.” family and friends, Brunetti last year at West Virginia, but struggled, due in part to some quicker he can do it, the better Being a Memphis native, said he is used to it. his first collegiate start will pressure and distractions that he’ll play.” Brunetti has also had to deal “I came here to be close come Saturday against BYU in come with the position. Brunetti admitted the pres- with the distraction of ticket to home, so I’m not going to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. “Everybody reacts different- sure of being named the start- requests from friends and fam- say it’s something that is mak- “It’s exciting, especially ly,” Ole Miss offensive coordi- ing quarterback weighed on ily from home all week leading ing me mad,” Brunetti said. being able to start the first nator David Lee said. “It’s an him for a few days, but after up to Saturday’s game. Bru- “I’m glad my family wants to honor to be the University of a weekend watching film on netti speculated that he’ll have inside Mississippi quarterback. To be the BYU Cougars, he’s settling “over 50” friends and family See BRUNETTI, PAGE 2 Shackelford Lockett ready looks to help to hit the field the Rebels from again the sidelines Mississippi trio lead youth movement on offense P. 4 P. 5 P. 8 FOOTBALL PREVIEW FALL 2011 | 9.2.2011 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | PAGE 2 Updated Ole Miss football depth chart

INFOGRAPHIC BY PETRE THOMAS | The Daily Mississippian/INFORMATION PROVIDED BY OLE MISS SPORTS INFORMATION

for it.” BRUNETTI, Even with an inexperienced Football isn’t the problem, fans are continued from page 1 quarterback, Lee says Ole Miss will “not play scared.” team or paying attention to the coaches, swear at the referees – “I may be wrong, but we’re game unless it’s in the seconds it doesn’t matter, all the noise come see me play. I’m glad my going to cut it loose,” Lee said. following a big play. contributes to creating a home- friends want to come see me “We’re playing a team that It’s true that The Grove boasts field advantage. When we play.” can score. That doesn’t mean the best tailgating atmosphere become the 12th man on the Once Saturday rolls around, they will score. I hope we shut in , and certainly field, the visiting team has a job Brunetti expects the BYU de- them out. I don’t know what’s BY DONICA PHIFER the chance to meet up with that is 10 times more difficult. fense to attempt to exploit his going to happen, but we’re not [email protected] people that you only see during When a visiting team is lack of experience in his first going to play conservative.” football season is a wonderful rattled, victories can happen. collegiate start. Brunetti said he is ready for doesn’t care thing. The LSU game in 2009 is one “They’re a great pass de- BYU. that you are wearing a new I enjoy the social atmosphere of the best examples of how a fense,” Brunetti said. “They “I have to take it one play dress. that comes with an afternoon in crowd can affect a team with a try to fool you in coverage. at a time and just try to lead Barry Brunetti doesn’t care The Grove, too, but I have long lot of talent. I’ve kind of got it in my mind- this team the best way I can,” that you didn’t smuggle in despised the casual laid-back If Moo U can accomplish set. Since they know I’m a the quarterback said. “The enough airplane bottles and attitude that follows everyone a white-out of Penn State young quarterback – first start only thing that’s on my mind need to return to The Grove for into Vaught-Hemingway proportions, we can make – they’re going to try and fool is coming out with a victory a refill. Stadium. sure that there is never a dead me pre-snap, but I’ll be ready that day.” Kentrell Lockett doesn’t care Of course, many don’t show moment inside the Vaught. that you don’t understand the up until the end of the 1st This year, the Rebels are rules of football. quarter and depart at halftime fielding a young team with a lot The team and the coaches with the complaint that the of talent and heart. care about one thing: the game. game is “boring,” that we are These men are committed to Tommy’s Antiques It’s a novel concept, that “going to lose” or that they need football and to winning as many since 1974 football games are actually more alcohol. games as they can. Oxford’s oldest Antique Store. about football. With such an enthusiastic fan- Knowing they have the We have pieces that are affordable and are a good At Ole Miss, football comes base, it’s shocking that the team support of 60,000 people can investment. Quality pieces will do nothing, after The Grove, drinking, what might find themselves struggling do amazing things for morale but go up in value each year. Junk will stay junk. you are wearing and who you in the second half of the game. and focus during a game, not plan to sit with for the game. Here are a few suggestions: to mention the effectiveness of Estate Jewelry Football hasn’t been important The Grove will still be there at all those people on their feet, Pair of Fireside Benches here since Billy Brewer retired. the end of the game. cheering and waving pom- Tables & Chairs Ole Miss has long suffered You can drink to celebrate poms. from an uninspired fan-base. after a win or to drown your Perhaps this year we can Solid Mahogany Bedroom Suite People might turn out for the sorrows after a loss. stop being so concerned with Beds game, but the large majority of You can make a game less looking cool and make school Desks spectators are attending for the boring by getting involved and spirit a priority for once. Maybe Accent Tables social event. being vocal. football, rather than fans, can Glassware & China It’s not about supporting the Cheer for the team, heckle the become our problem. Lamps Mirrors Hand-Made Rugs Editor’s Note: Kitchen Collectibles Due to problems with production, The Daily Mississippian’s 2011 Football Preview has been in- Liquor Bar Secretaries serted in the paper Thursday and today. In addition to the content originially produced for the edition, an Furniture Stripping & Repair Work Heavy Summer Discounts! Just Ask! updated football depth chart has been added for your convenience. Thank you for your support of The 193 Highway 6 East • Oxford •662-234-4669 Daily Mississippian. For game covereage, check out www.thedmonline.com Saturday. FOOTBALL PREVIEW FALL 2011 | 9.2.2011 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | PAGE 3 KNOW YOUR FOE: BYU Letter from the sports editor

Leading Passer: Defensive Leader: SO QB Jake JR DL Eathyn Brewer to his staff, and after giv- ments in 100 Days. Michael Heaps 219-383, Manumaleuna 27 ing up the most points in school White unveiled a new capital 2316 yards, 15 tackles, 9 solo, touchdowns, 9 3 tackles for loss, history, Nutt brought on Keith campaign for football renovation interceptions. 2.5 sacks Burns to coach the secondary. and expansion, in addition to the There are freshmen and oth- construction of a new basketball er newcomers throughout the arena. JAKE HEAPS Eathyn Manumaleuna BY AUSTIN MILLER depth chart, including starting The impact of these changes [email protected] Leading Rusher: Defensive leader: quarterback Barry Brunetti and cannot be understated, particu- SR RB JJ Di JR LB Brandon a trio of freshman receivers from larly the latter. If you want to Luigi 178 car, Ogletree 49 In a word, last year was a dis- our own state. compete in the best conference in 917 yards, 8 tackles, 22 solo, appointment for Ole Miss athlet- Andy Kennedy completely the country, you have got to have touchdowns. 5 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions ics. overhauled his coaching staff, the resources to get the coaches From the start, with a 49-48 and Jelan Kenrick headlines a and players to win. double-overtime loss to Jackson- youth movement on the hard- Coaches, players and admin- JJ DI LUIGI BRANDON OGLETREE ville State, Rebel fans left stadi- court for the Rebels. Senquez istrators are not settling for “sec- ums and arenas on this campus Golson, a two-sport athlete that ond-best,” “just good enough” and across the South shaking turned down the Boston Red or even “the best team in the Leading Receiver: Defensive leader: SO WR Cody SR DB Corby their heads in unison. There’s Sox, is one example of the many state.” Hoffman 42 rec, Eason 22 tackles, enough blame to go around, baseball signees that are now The goal is to play for SEC and 527 yards, 7 20 solo, 5.5 from the coaches to the players on campus, looking to move on National championships. That touchdowns tackles for loss, to the fans, but it’s time to move from last year’s absence from the may not be an immediate goal 3.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles on. With the start of 2011, there SEC and NCAA Tournaments for this year, but it’s a foreseeable is reason for optimism. and make it to Omaha for the goal in the future. Administrators CODY HOFFMAN CORBY EASON It’s football season, so let’s talk first time under Mike Bianco. and staff are doing their part. about football. Off the field, Michael Thomp- Coaches are doing their part. To help with ideas and play- son spearheaded an overhaul of Players are doing their part. Name: (BYU) calling on offense, Houston Nutt the look and feel of Ole Miss Fans now need to do their added David Lee and Gunter athletics with the 100 Improve- part. Nickname: Cougars Location: Provo, Utah (112,448 pop.) Enrollment: 33,278 Colors: Dark Blue and White Mascot: Cosmo Head Coach: Bronco Mendenhall 7th year at BYU (56-21) Conference: Independent All-time Record: 512-380-26 2010 Record: 7-6 National Champion: 1984 Notable Football Alumni: – 1990 Heisman Trophy winner Jim McMahon – 2-time Super Bowl winner – 3-time Super Bowl winner Other Notable Alumni: Ken Jennings – Winningest game show contestant (Jeopardy!) Stephanie Meyer – Author of “Twilight” Mitt Romney – Politician Interesting Fact: BYU is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. BYU is America’s largest religious university and fourth-largest private university.

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Doing what he can: Shackelford looks to help the Rebels from the sidelines

BY DAVID COLLIER his role model Willis, but then leader,” he said. “I’ve got to [email protected] the unfortunate happened. be in that role not only on the Shackelford went down in field, but off the field also.” When Ole Miss linebacker spring practice with a torn ACL Although he said it’s hard for D.T. Shackelford arrived his just days before he was given him at times to see his team- freshman year, his goal was to the Chucky Mullins Courage mates playing without him, he become the type of player Pat- Award, the 22nd player to re- knows he has to do everything rick Willis was with the Rebels. ceive the honor. But that didn’t he can to help the team win. Willis, who is now in the Na- stop him from doing everything “I think (being more of a tional Football League with the he could to help his team. coach) was something that I San Francisco 49ers, is consid- Ever since the injury oc- was forced into,” Shackelford ered by many to be the best curred, Shackelford has been said. “I enjoy it, but I also love linebacker in the NFL. like an extra coach on the side- playing the game also. Shackelford played a valu- lines. “It’s something I’ve had to get able role his freshman season “It’s just a new role I have to used to. Just because you can’t before breaking into the start- fill,” Shackelford said. “I can’t play doesn’t mean you can’t be ing defense just a season ago. play physically, so I have to be a help to the team.” In 2010, Shackelford totaled mentally into the game and Head coach Houston Nutt 48 tackles with nine tackles for coach some of the younger appreciates the way Shackel- loss and five sacks as he was guys.” ford remains a leader for the one of very few bright spots for Shackelford said he took his team, even if it is from the side- the defense. role as an extra coach serious- lines this season. It looked as though Shack- ly. “Even though (D.T.) isn’t on elford was starting to resemble “I’ve got to be more of a the field, you appreciate his at- ALEX EDWARDS | The Daily Mississippian titude,” Nutt said. “He’s almost like a coach – reiterating what But even without his pres- good,” Shackelford said. “They Coach (Tyrone) Nix says. You ence on the field, Shackelford are going to be really good really appreciate that.“ feels the Rebel defense has tak- players for us in the future, and When not being a team lead- en a big step forward from last a lot of them will help us this er, Shackelford is concentrat- season’s debacle. year.” ing on getting back to his old “I see we are playing hard,” The three freshmen still have self again as quickly as possible he said. “We’re trying to get in room to improve, however, so he can return to action. on every play and get 11 play- Shackleford added. “I’ve been running some, do- ers to the ball.” “I think they just sometimes ing squats,” Shackelford said. Stressing getting every player get over anxious and want to “I’m ahead. I’m doing a lot of toward the ball is important make the play so bad,” he said. things right now, so I’m feeling to improvement, Shackelford “They’ve got to know where really good.” said. they are in the scheme.” He even hopes to play later “Every day you can only get Shackleford said there is a this season. better or worse, and I feel like scheme to everything. “I hope to, but I’m not going each day we are getting better,” “If one person gets out of to rush it,” Shackelford said. he said. this gap, you’ve got to make “You just have to stay positive However in order to get bet- sure to fill it,” he said. “We all and whatever happens, hap- ter, someone is going to have to work together as one puzzle. I pens.” step up and provide depth at feel like that is a good thing for Shackelford said he would the linebacker position. us.” not get back in the game until Fortunately, the Rebels have The junior linebacker did he is 100 percent. three freshman linebackers in have some advice for the fresh- “I’m about 70 percent,” the C.J. Johnson, Keith Lewis and man class. linebacker said. “I’m just do- Serderius Bryant, all of whom “I feel like they are all spe- ing whatever the trainers are have received praise all fall cial players that will be really asking me to do. I’m doing my camp long from the coaches good if they just keep on work- training, jogging and lifting and Shackelford himself. ing and don’t become compla- weights.” “I think they are going to be cent,” Shackelford said.

LOCKETT, continued from page 12

to this rollercoaster – Brigham Young University. Lockett knows the Cougars of BYU are older and more mature than a normal college team because their players take two-year missions during their college years. He also knows sophomore quarterback Jake Heaps is a guy who can lead his team down the field just as well as anyone in the country, but that doesn’t intimidate Lockett. “He is a guy that can run and a guy that can execute,” Lockett said. “As a whole, they like to take advantage of the opposing team’s mistakes. “They’re going to execute. They are going to wait for us to slip up and try to make a play. So if we limit our mistakes and play ball, we’ll be alright.” FOOTBALL PREVIEW FALL 2011 | 9.2.2011 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | PAGE 5

The big three: Mississippi trio lead youth movement on offense

coach (Nutt) desires to put me, I am good with,” Brassell said. “I am learning both positions so when my name gets called for either one, I am ready to go out there.” Even though all three come in and are competing against each other for playing time this sea- son, the players say it’s been a great experience on and off the field. “It has already been a great experience playing with them,” Singleton said. “Everything is fun with us.” While joking around, Single- ton said it is all about helping each other on the field. “We are grinding hard; we PETRE THOMAS | The Daily Mississippian are all out here to get better,” LEFT: Donte Moncrief CENTER: Nickolas Brassell RIGHT: Tobias Singleton Singleton said. “We are play- ing as a team so we can win as BY DAVID HENSON sell, who had previously com- most of their receivers back returning kicks, he can also play a team.” [email protected] mitted to Mississippi State, only from last year’s team, led by ju- defense. Nutt said he expects to Moncreif, recently named a to later decommit, announced nior Melvin Harris and sopho- play Brassell as defensive back starter at one wide receiver spot Last year’s Mississippi high on National Signing Day, Feb. more Ja-Mes Logan, Nutt said in certain situations. in Monday’s depth chart, echoes school wide receiver class was 2, that he was going to attend all three freshmen have the po- While most freshmen have a Singleton’s sentiments. one of the top classes in the na- Ole Miss from his high school tential to see playing time very hard enough time adjusting to “We are always together,” tion. library at South Panola. early in their careers. college football while concen- Moncrief said. “It’s a friendly Three of the top five players It did not take long for fourth- “You look at Donte Moncrief trating on one position, Brassell competition between all of us; in the state were wide receiv- year head coach Houston Nutt — physically you feel like he has shown early in his college we are always together rather ers, and the Ole Miss coach- to recognize that he had some- is going to help us,” Nutt said. career that he has the ability to it’s on the field or off.” ing staff took note and set a thing special with this year’s “Nick Brassell — speed, athleti- play both ways. He sees it as a Moncrief said he’s been talk- priority. Their hard work paid freshman class. In fact, it only cism, he can help us and with challenge and a way to see the ing to Brassell and Singleton off in February when all three took one day of practice for special teams. field more. about playing together for a — Nickolas Brassell, Tobias Nutt to begin gushing over his “Tobias Singleton — speed, “I just want to do whatever long time now. Singleton and Donte Moncrief new players. he is thick and there is another I need to do to help us win,” “Me and Nick and Tobias — signed scholarship papers to “I love them; I love them guy that could return a kick. So Brassell said at a recent prac- have been talking for a long attend and play football at Ole more today than I did on sign- instantly, those three give you a tice. “We are out there trying to time,” Moncrief said. Miss. ing day,” Nutt said after the first major boost in speed, catching win.” “Now we’re living a dream as While Moncrief committed to day of fall practice. “We threw the ball and in special teams.” Brassell said he is working freshmen playing in the SEC. play for the Rebels last summer, them right out there in the mid- Brassell brings an added di- hard so he can play wherever. Now we have to live up to it, Singleton waited until January dle of it.” mension to the team; along with “We are trying to make a play hard and keep the excite- to make his decision, and Bras- Even though the Rebels have playing offense and potentially change in Oxford so wherever ment on the team.”

SEC HELMET SCHEDULE Home | Away Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10 Week 11 Week 12 Week 13 FOOTBALL PREVIEW FALL 2011 | 9.2.2011 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | PAGE 6

Southeastern Conference Preview - Eastern Division As the 2011 season approaches, the eyes of college football fans everywhere is on the . Unfortunately, it is not because of what is happening on the field. Instead, off-the-field issues have become the headlines of just about every SEC football team. But the season is finally upon us and David Collier, [email protected], takes a look at the Southeastern Conference for the upcoming season.

yards, four touchdowns) Steve Spurier’s team has a chance to repeat as SEC Eastern Division Champions, but in order to do so, Georgia Bulldogs starting quarterback Stephen Gar- 2010 Record: cia will need to stay out of trouble. Florida Gators 6-7, 3-5 in SEC Kentucky Wildcats Garcia was suspended Vanderbilt Commo- 2010 Record: Key Returning Players: 2010 Record: in the spring for violating team dores 8-5, 4-4 in SEC QB Aaron Murray (3,049 6-7, 2-6 in SEC rules, but that was lifted before fall 2010 Record: Key Returning Play- passing yards, 24 TDs, eight Key Returning Players: LB camp opened. The passing attack 2-10, 1-7 in SEC ers: interceptions), TE Orson Danny Trevathan (144 tackles, of Garcia and superstar wide re- Key Returning Players: QB John Brantley (2,061 Charles (26 receptions, 422 16 tackles for loss, three sacks), ceiver Ashlon Jeffrey is almost un- RB Warren Norman (459 passing yards, nine touch- yards, two touchdowns), DT P Ryan Tydlacka (47 punts, 43.8 stoppable, and it will play a big role rushing yards, four touch- downs, 10 interceptions), DeAngelo Tyson (36 tackles, avg., 13 inside the 20) in how well the Gamecocks do this downs), TE Brandon Barden RB Jeff Demps (551 rushing four tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks), Key Losses: season. (34 receptions, 425 yards, yards, three touchdowns), DB Brandon Boykin (44 tack- WR Randall Cobb (84 recep- three touchdowns), S Sean LB Jelani Jenkins (76 tack- les, 6.5 tackles for loss, three tions, 1,441 total yards, 12 total Richardson (98 tackles, seven les, five tackles for loss, two interceptions) touchdowns), QB Mike Har- tackles for loss, five broken up sacks), LB John Bostic (57 Key Losses: tline (3,178 passing yards, 23 passes), DB Casey Hayward tackles, two sacks, three in- WR A.J. Green (57 recep- touchdowns, nine interceptions), (70 tackles, six interceptions, terceptions) tions, 848 yards, nine touch- RB Derrick Locke (887 rushing 17 broken up passes) Key Losses: downs), LB Akeem Dent (126 yards, 10 touchdowns) Key Losses: LB John S Ahmad Black (108 tack- tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 Losing their three best offen- Stokes (78 tackles, six tackles les, 11 tackles for loss, five sacks), DE Justin Houston (67 sive weapons will be a tough Tennessee Volunteers for a loss, two recovered fum- interceptions), P Chas Henry tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, thing to overcome for head 2010 Record: bles) (50 punts, 45.1 avg., 18 in- 10 sacks, 44 quarterback hur- coach Joker Phillips and the 6-7, 3-5 in SEC The Commodores look for side the 20) ries), Wildcats. Their schedule sets up Key Returning Players: tremendous improvement The departure of two-time Aaron Murray is the leading nicely, however, as they get win- DL Malik Jackson (48 tackles, from a season ago with nearly national champion head returning quarterback in the nable games at home. Although 11 tackles for loss, five intercep- every starter returning. First- coach Urban Meyer leaves a SEC and one of the best in the it is not likely, Kentucky can tions), QB Tyler Bray (1,849 year head coach James Frank- lot of questions for the Ga- country, but it will take more reach a bowl game this year if passing yards, 18 touchdowns, lin and his squad have some tors this year. Entering his than that for the Bulldogs to they figure out who their play- 10 interceptions), RB Tauren games at home that are must- first season in Gainesville, get back to their winning tradi- makers are on the offensive side Poole (1,034 rushing yards, 11 win games if they hope to get Will Muschamp will try to tion. Mark Richt and company of the ball. touchdowns) back to playing in a bowl game get the Gators playing on an will rely heavily on his defense Key Losses: this season. Vanderbilt’s de- elite level again. Offensive to hold down the fort, while DB Janzen Jackson (69 tackles, fense will need to hold oppo- coordinator Charlie Weiss Murray finds a new favorite five interceptions, 11 broken up nents at bay, while the offense will attempt to develop the target with the departure of passes), WR Denarius Moore hopes to grind out some points offense around the strength A.J. Green. The schedule sets (47 receptions, 981 yards, nine to secure some victories. of second year starter John up nicely for the Bulldogs as touchdowns), WR Gerald Jones Brantley. The Gators have a they draw Ole Miss, Mississip- South Carolina Gamecocks (55 receptions, 596 yards, four tough schedule, but they will pi State and Auburn from the 2010 Record: touchdowns) likely be in the thick of the West, and that could mean an 9-5, 5-3 in SEC The Volunteers should be SEC East race come season’s extra game for Georgia in the Key Returning Players: much improved this season. Al- end. SEC Championship Game. WR Alshon Jeffrey (88 receptions, though Tyler Bray lost his two 1,517 yards, nine touchdowns), RB leading receivers, he should be Marcus Lattimore (1,197 rushing more of a force with a year of yards, 17 touchdowns), QB Ste- SEC football now under his belt. phen Garcia (3,059 passing yards, There is still room for concern angel taxi 20 touchdowns, 14 interceptions), because the team as a whole Open 24/7 DE Devin Taylor (13 tackles for is very young. The Volunteers Follow Newswatch on Twitter loss, 7.5 sacks, nine broken up pass- have just 26 upperclassmen, • Excursions to and from: es, 11 quarterback hurries) compared to 26 freshmen and @ Oxford, Memphis,Tunica, Jackson Key Losses: 27 sophomores. Therefore, Newswatch_99 DL Cliff Matthews (44 tackles, second-year head coach Derek • Professional Drivers 8.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks), WR Dooley should see improvement 662-715-9382 Tori Gurley (44 receptions, 465 as the season goes on. FRIDAY SATURDAY LIVE MUSIC! blues legend Soule 10 pm - close T-Model Ford. SUSHI HAPPY HOUR LATE NIGHT SUSHI Monday-Saturday Tuesday and Saturday 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. only - 10 p.m. to close Two Stick NEW NIGHTLY DRINK SPECIALS! sushi bar & grill We now have personal sushi chefs available for gameday tents in the Grove! 1007 Harrison Ave. ~ Oxford, MS 38655 Call 662-801-4943 to schedule yours! 662•236•6639 FOOTBALL PREVIEW FALL 2011 | 9.2.2011 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | PAGE 7

downs), LB Ryan Baker (87 to- Dan Mullen and his Bulldogs Key Returning Players: tal TDs, 11 tackles for loss, seven are hoping to carry momentum RB Brandon Bolden (976 rush- Western Division sacks) from last season over to 2011. It ing yards, 14 touchdowns), DE Key Losses: won’t be long before they find Kentrell Lockett (missed most DB Patrick Peterson (42 total out if this year’s team is for real. of season with injury), P Tyler tackles, four interceptions, 10 pass The second week of the season, Campbell (60 punts, 46.4 avg., 13 deflections), RB Stevan Ridley Mississippi State will travel to inside 20) (1,147 rushing yards, 15 touch- Auburn, while turning around Key Losses: downs), LB Kelvin Sheppard (116 and hosting LSU just five days QB Jeremiah Masoli (2,583 total Auburn Tigers tackles, 11 tackles for loss, four later. This is the best team Mul- yards, 20 total TDs, 13 intercep- Alabama Crimson Tide 2010 Record: sacks), DL Drake Nevis (56 tackles, len will field since he’s been the tions), WR Markeith Summers 2010 Record: 14-0, 9-0 in SEC 13 tackles for loss, six sacks) head man in Starkville, and he (28 receptions, 575 yards, 6 TDs), 10-3, 5-3 in SEC Key Returning Players: Heading into the season opener hopes senior quarterback DT Jerrell Powe (27 total tackles, Key Returning Players: RB Michael Dyer (1,093 against Oregon in the Cowboys Chris Relf can lead this team, 8.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks), LB RB Trent Richardson (1,600 rushing yards, 5 touchdowns), Stadium in Arlington, Texas, head while the defense finds their Jonathan Cornell (80 total tackles, total yards, 11 total touch- TE Philip Lutzenkirchen (15 re- coach Les Miles had hoped to have identity under defensive coordi- 14 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks) downs), WR Marquis Maze ceptions, 185 yards, five touch- his whole roster available to play. nator Chris Wilson, who will be Coming off a disastrous 2010 (557 receiving yards, four total downs), WR Emory Blake (33 Unfortunately for without Manny Diaz’s presence season, the Rebels hope to get touchdowns), S Mark Barron receptions, 554 yards, 8 touch- the Tigers, that will not be the on the sidelines this fall. back on track. Barry Brunetti was (75 tackles, 3 interceptions), LB downs), DB Neiko Thorpe (64 case. Starting quarterback Jordan named the starter for the season Courtney Upshaw (52 tackles, tackles, 9 broken up passes) Jefferson and linebacker Josh Johns opener, but it is likely both Zack 7 sacks, 4 forced fumbles), LB Key Losses: have both been suspended indefi- Stoudt and Randall Mackey will Dont’a Hightower (69 tackles, QB Cam Newton (4,327 total nitely for their role in a bar fight last get some playing time. Brandon 3.5 tackles for a loss) yards, 50 total touchdowns, sev- week that got both players arrested. Bolden will need to grind out Key Losses: en interceptions), DT Nick Fair- If that wasn’t bad enough, the ver- yards behind an experienced of- RB Mark Ingram (875 rush- ley (60 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, satile wide receiver Russell Shepard Ole Miss Rebels fensive line, while the defense ing yards, 14 total touchdowns), 11.5 sacks), LB Josh Bynes (73 was also suspended for the season 2010 Record: needs to step up after giving up QB Greg McElroy (2,987 pass- tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, three opener for sharing information 4-8, 1-7 in SEC the most points in school history ing yards, 21 total touchdowns, interceptions), PK Wes Byrum regarding the police investigation just a season ago. five interceptions), WR Julio (17-22 field goals made) with another teammate. So while Jones (1,133 receiving yards, 9 Replacing Heisman Trophy the Tigers had hoped to be talking total touchdowns), DE Marcell winner Cam Newton and de- national championship, first they Dareus (11 tackles for loss, 4.5 fending their SEC and national will have to get out of trouble. sacks, 10 quarterback hurries) titles will be a tough task for the Coming off a year in which Tigers in 2011. Junior Barrett the Crimson Tide failed to re- Trotter won the quarterback peat as National Champions, battle in fall camp, but Gus they are hoping to get back there Malzahn will rely heavily on this year. Filling in for the gradu- sophomore running back Mi- Mississippi State Bull- ated Greg McElroy will be either chael Dyer. An early test comes dogs sophomore A.J. McCarron or when the Mississippi State Bull- 2010 Record: redshirt freshman Phillip Sims. dogs come to town on Sep. 10. 9-4, 4-4 in SEC Nevertheless, the suffocating That should tell the Key Returning Players: defense will need to hold down Tigers and the rest of the con- QB Chris Relf (2,502 total opposing offenses and running ference what kind of team they yards, 18 total touchdowns, six back Trent Richardson will will be this season. interceptions), RB Vick Bal- need to pound out some tough lard (968 rushing yards, 20 total yards as the starting quarterback touchdowns), WR Chad Bum- settles into a groove. phis (44 receptions, 634 yards, five touchdowns), S Charles Mitchell (93 tackles, three tack- LSU Tigers les for loss) 2010 Record: Key Losses: 11-2, 6-2 in SEC LB Chris White (110 tackles, Key Returning Players: 15.5 tackles for loss, six sacks), Arkansas Razorbacks QB Jordan Jefferson (1, 861 total LB K.J. Wright (98 tackles, eight 2010 Record: yards, 14 total touchdowns, 10 in- tackles for loss, three sacks, nine 10-3, 6-2 in SEC terceptions), WR Russell Shepard broken up passes) Key Returning Players: (480 total yards, three total touch- WR Joe Adams (50 receptions, 813 yards, 6 touchdowns), WR Greg Childs (46 receptions, 659 yards, 6 touchdowns), LB Jerry Franklin (100 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks), S/LB Jerrico Nel- son (87 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks) Key Losses: QB Ryan Mallett (3,869 pass- ing yards, 36 total touchdowns, 12 interceptions), TE D.J. Wil- liams (54 receptions, 627 yards, 4 touchdowns), LB Anthony Leon (65 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks) The Razorbacks got some unfor- tunate news early on in fall camp when star running back Knile Da- vis went down with an injured left leg, which will keep him out the rest of the season. Therefore, head coach Bobby Petrino will be looking to his new quarterback Tyler Wilson to move the offense with a couple of vet- eran receivers in Joe Adams and Greg Childs, while an experienced defense will hope to hold offenses to a minimum. FOOTBALL PREVIEW FALL 2011 | 9.2.2011 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | PAGE 8

Fins up: Lockett ready to hit the field again

PETRE THOMAS | The Daily Mississippian

BY DAVID COLLIER the offense got going. For Lockett, he hoped to just “I’m just going to try to keep up. And, from the offseason [email protected] However, this particular recover fully and do whatev- the lid on the top of this pot through fall practice, he sees rollercoaster had some kinks er he could to help the team and keep the excitement from a different attitude around the The past year for Ole Miss that needed to be worked out. win. boiling over,” he said. “I think unit this time around. defensive end Kentrell Lockett During fall camp, Lockett Then, another bump reared if I’m too excited, I’m going “We’re hungry,” Lockett has been a rollercoaster to say had an irregular heartbeat, its ugly head on this already to make a mistake early. said. “We’re trying to get that the least, but as the 2011 sea- which held him out of the sea- horrifying ride. “I’m more worried about respect back from being the son approaches, he is ready to son opener against Jackson- Lockett’s season was cut the excitement, it being the Landsharks.” get back out in Vaught-Hem- ville State — a 49-48 double- short when he went down first game and just getting Lockett said he thinks the ingway Stadium for another overtime loss that broke the with a knee injury that was back out there.” defense can get back to where year of SEC football. hearts of Rebels everywhere. later determined to be a torn In his career, Lockett has tal- it was. The ride began when Lock- Lockett began to play in a ACL against Fresno State. lied 23.5 tackles for loss with “We’re trying to give the ett was preparing for the 2010 limited role the next week Unfortunately for Lockett, nine sacks, but head coach Landsharks the name where season. at Tulane, where the Rebels he had to watch his defense Houston Nutt doesn’t know it’s being looked at, has some The defensive line was sup- hoped the lingering effects surrender the most points how many more opportunities meaning and some weight to posed to be the strength of the of the devastating loss to the in school history. He said he the sixth-year senior will get. it,” Lockett said. team and carry the load until Gamecocks would wear off. thought his days wearing the “I don’t know how many “Everybody is just trying to Ole Miss red and blue were plays he can get,” Nutt said. get that Landshark name and over. “It will be a pretty good give it the respect that it has Despite it all, the track on amount of plays and make a had in the past.” this rollercoaster got smooth pretty good ball game for him, In order to get that intensity once again. but we do not know the num- and the mindset back, the Ole The NCAA granted Lockett ber.” Miss defense will be looking a sixth year of eligibility for Nutt said the coaching at some freshmen, as well as having lost two seasons in his staff will be watching Lockett some other newcomers to step career to injury, the other be- closely. up and bring some depth to ing a shoulder injury in 2006. “He has rehabbed hard and that side of the ball. The man that had given his his leg is awfully strong, but he Among those players, de- all for the Rebels would get has had four surgeries,” Nutt fensive backs Wesley Pendle- a chance to do it one more said. ton, Senquez Golson, Cody time. Lockett, who was voted as Prewitt and Chief Brown and “It’s crazy,” Lockett said. a team captain for the second linebackers Aaron Garbutt, “It’s going to be emotional. consecutive year on Sunday, C.J. Johnson, Keith Lewis But at the same time it’s been said he can play more than and Serderius Bryant have all almost a year since I’ve played, even Nutt thinks. impressed their veteran team- so I’m just really looking for- “I can play the whole game,” mates. ward to it.” Lockett said with a big smile “They are resilient,” Lock- Going into the 2011 season, on his face. ett said. “They don’t even Lockett isn’t worried about No matter how long Lockett seem like younger guys.” his knee being another bump can go every Saturday, the de- Lockett said they are all fit- in the road this season. fense is going to have to step ting in. “They’ve taken all the coaching; they’re falling in place, and they are just ready to play ball,” Lockett said. “They got thrown into the mix when they got here, and now, they are just another part of the machinery.” But for now, it’s time to fo- cus on the next twist and turn

See LOCKETT, PAGE 4