Mississippi college football teams focus on preparation ahead of season openers

College football returned to Mississippi with teams emphasizing the importance of preparation ahead of their first games. Coaches from Ole Miss, Mississippi State, and Southern Miss discussed their readiness for the 2026-27 season.

Ole Miss, ranked No. 9, begins the Pete Golding era after a 13-win campaign that ended in the College Football Playoff semifinals. The Rebels face No. 24 Louisville on Sunday night in Nashville. Louisville, led by coach Jeff Brohm, has a new quarterback, a revamped offensive line, and a new wide receivers group but returns All-ACC running back Isaac Brown and a strong defense, according to sources. Ole Miss coach Golding acknowledged the challenge, noting the Cardinals’ recent victory over Miami and their potential as ACC contenders.

Golding said his team has shown improvement in effort and attention to detail during offseason practices. “If you do that this coming Sunday, you’re not going to win the football game,” he said. The Rebels are 6.5-point favorites over Louisville, according to sources.

Mississippi State opens against Louisiana Monroe, a team considered one of the weakest in the Sun Belt West. The Bulldogs have a chance to make a statement early in the season, with key players like quarterback Kamario Taylor and corner Kelley Jones. Coach Jeff Lebby stressed the importance of confidence built through preparation. “Preparation is what creates a ton of confidence,

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