Red Cup Rebellion - Ole Miss National Signing Day 2018: Letters of intent, news and moreChanging the culture of Ole Miss Rebel athletics since 2008.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51401/rcr-fav.png2018-02-09T09:53:16-05:00http://www.redcuprebellion.com/rss/stream/167423892018-02-09T09:53:16-05:002018-02-09T09:53:16-05:00Bret Michaels has signed with Ole Miss
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<figcaption>Twitter-Phil Longo</figcaption>
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<p>Every space can be chased. Just like every spring has its practice. </p> <p id="42BjmO">Ole Miss offensive coordinator Phil Longo hit the motherload back in December when he flipped four-star quarterback Matt Corral from Florida and signed him during the early signing period. He was no doubt a key cog in the Rebels being able to land two more blue-chip receivers in Miles Battle and Elijah Moore, and he was also an active recruiter on campus during CROOTAPALOOZA.</p>
<p id="beXyII">But Phil not only struck gold when he found his quarterback of the future, but it was the baggage that Corral brought with him to Oxford. And it’s the good kind, trust me. The 6’2, 202-pounder is not only bringing a cannon for an arm and the most swagger we’ve seen since CK10 was under center, but he is pals with Poison front man Bret Michaels due to the fact that he dates his daughter, Raine.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">POISON's legendary BRET MICHAELS joins REBEL NATION, a fan base like no other!!! Rebels Rock in '18! <a href="https://twitter.com/bretmichaels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BretMichaels</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OleMissFootball?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OleMissFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NothinButAGoodTime?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NothinButAGoodTime</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RebelNation?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RebelNation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HottyToddy?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HottyToddy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DontBlink?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DontBlink</a> <a href="https://t.co/WspxyUXYhN">pic.twitter.com/WspxyUXYhN</a></p>— Phil Longo (@CoachPhilLongo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachPhilLongo/status/961826509265580032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2018</a>
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<p id="1mFKOO">As you can see in the picture above, Longo grabbed the mic at Ole Miss’ 2018 National Signing Day Party on Wednesday and donned a red and white bandana to pay tribute to the rock legend. Then, in the tweet above, you see Michaels posted on Facebook that his daughter’s boyfriend, Corral, is now a member of the Ole Miss football team and that Longo “channeled and rocked his inner Bret Michaels” to welcome the next signal caller in Oxford. But, not to be outdone, Longo gave Bret some love and now the former rock star is wanting to come do a Hotty Toddy and maybe donate a player’s lounge or two, who knows?</p>
<p id="svJvrp">Maybe he can <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2014/4/10/5594348/college-football-bag-man-interview">be the next bag man</a> and help us lockdown the most loaded Mississippi class in the history of recruiting in 2019? Or even just serenade the players as they walk down the Walk of Champions with a remix to “Talk Dirty to Me” called “Chase Space with Me”? These are all possibilities for the newest member of the 2018 recruiting class.</p>
<p id="atX556">But, let’s go back to the tweet above, couple things here. Mr. Michaels speaks in the third person in his Facebook post, hell yeah, I dig it. He also reaffirmed what we already knew about our good boy Phil, declaring him an “awesome coach”. He also gives some dap to head coach Matt Luke, calling him an “awesome coach” as well. He then signs off by saying that the Rebels “will rock”.</p>
<p id="ydBvdV">Fucking right, Bret.</p>
<p id="oGgM7D"> ☠️ </p>
https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/9/16994880/phil-longo-bandana-ole-miss-signing-day-party-welcome-bret-michaels-2018-class-poison-roses-thornsZach Berry2018-02-08T12:38:58-05:002018-02-08T12:38:58-05:00Matt Luke and Co. finish 31st in team rankings
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<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: NOV 11 Louisiana at Mississippi" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qp5OU6jGsOBrajsC3S0Nvfzz8Ck=/8x0:4928x3280/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58613667/873008496.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Austin McAfee/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Second straight year with a top 35 class.</p> <p id="VROn0F">After missing out on a number of targets on National Signing Day, the 2018 Ole Miss recruiting class checked in at no. 31 on 247 Sports’ <a href="https://247sports.com/Season/2018-Football/CompositeTeamRankings">composite rankings</a>. It is the second straight year that the Rebel recruiting class is ranked 30th after beginning the day at No. 28.</p>
<p id="gA6L1P">Although it may seem like there wasn’t an improvement over last year’s class, the Rebels improved from 12th to 10th in the SEC, ahead of Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Missouri, and Arkansas. This year’s class should provide a lot of depth, <a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/7/16987264/ole-miss-national-signing-day-2018-recap-defensive-line-signees-football-recruiting">especially along the defensive line</a>, and 4-star quarterback Matt Corral looks like the Rebel quarterback of the future. It also should be noted that Matt Luke and co. were able to pull this off despite dealing with the aftermath of a five-year NCAA witch hunt and a postseason ban in 2018. </p>
<p id="ehCa4C">Although most of the class signed during the early signing period back in December, today’s headliner for the Rebels was former Southern California defensive tackle <span>Noah Jefferson</span>, who should be able to step in for the departed <span>Breeland Speaks</span>, and should continue to make Florida fans mad on the line.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Man damn! We can't get anybody!!! Wish you the best big dog would've loved to have you at UF. Now i gotta watch you at ole Miss, and wish it was UF you were sacking QB's GOT DAMN DAN, WHAT THE ... ARE YOU DOING!!!?</p>— Reginald Smith (@Reginal66928052) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reginal66928052/status/958173518553903104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2018</a>
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<p id="AE54q4">Despite missing out on a few signatures from notable targets Tommy Bush, Tank Jenkins, and Charles Strong, 15 of the 21 signed prospects are on the defensive side of the ball. Phil Longo and his offense were cooking in 2017, but the defense was far behind. If Ole Miss is going to improve on their 6-6 mark, they will need Wesley McGriff’s defense to make some adjustments and get some stops in 2018.</p>
<p id="ruAd77">This year’s recruiting cycle, they took a few steps forward to doing that, regardless of the ranking. Now, we look ahead to 2019 where they can take a few more steps forward on defense. Especially within the Magnolia State. Eight of the top 10 prospects in Mississippi are defensive prospects. </p>
<p id="vGcFVe">If Ole Miss is indeed #MississippiMade in 2019, it could go a long way.</p>
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https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/7/16988050/ole-miss-national-signing-day-recruiting-class-rankings-2018-recapChristoph Ludwig2018-02-08T12:30:01-05:002018-02-08T12:30:01-05:00WELP
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<img alt="LSU v Mississippi" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/DRlwmqJCUkSCe2EhwwAFnaTcWlw=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58623951/866714398.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Rebels managed to sign a top 35 class but did not close well.</p> <p id="ItZR4e">Ole Miss entered this off season knowing it had a lot of work to do to reinvigorate a team short on difference makers defensively. The Rebels also knew they needed to find offensive players to replace the immense talent that will be leaving next year offensively. The overall class isn’t too bad, coming in at 31st nationally <a href="https://247sports.com/Season/2018-Football/CompositeTeamRankings">per 247Sports</a>; however actual signing day was an enormous letdown and reinforced a lot of concerns many fans, yours included, have about the Matt Luke hire.</p>
<p id="vdVFxh">I entered the day giving Luke the benefit of the doubt. Sure, he makes some puzzling crunch-time decisions, doesn’t call his own plays, and didn’t make any staff changes despite having a team with no discipline on defense and a lack of recruiters at certain positions, but he is apparently known for his recruiting. After all, Ross Bjork said he hired Matt Luke so quickly because this recruiting class was so pivotal.</p>
<p id="4k0zDm">And...it was a big old letdown. They answered some needs but missed horribly on plenty.</p>
<h3 id="JiLvh4">They signed wide receivers.</h3>
<p id="v9jEOg">Everyone wants to talk about how the Rebels don’t really have a major need at receiver, given A.J. Brown, DaMarkus Lodge, and D.K. Metcalf are so dominant, but what is past them? When Lodge graduates next season and A.J. Brown likely declares for the NFL draft, what is left? With Tre Nixon and Van Jefferson both transferring during the off season, there isn’t much there. Sure, freshman Braylon Sanders is a promising player who showed ability at times last season, but after him who is there? </p>
<p id="A0b0XW">Kam White, who redshirted last season, was a four-star prospect as well, but him nor Sanders are proven at all. Also, two guys aren’t enough to restock the cupboard, especially if Metcalf were to leave as well (he’ll be a draft-eligible sophomore).</p>
<p id="WVzDte">So the coaches made a prerogative to sign good receivers, and they did. Four-star Miles Battle, who all our writers predicted would go to Oregon, spurned the Ducks to give the Rebels a big splash. Four-star Elijah Moore gives the Rebels a shifty, explosive player their receiving corps hasn’t really had for the last few years. And three-star Demarcus Gregory is 6’3, 205 and chose Ole Miss over 22 other schools, including his in-state South Carolina Gamecocks. The Rebels did miss on Tommy Bush, who may or may not have accepted a grayshirt offer to UGA.</p>
<p id="Q98anZ">Gotta love R.E.M., right?</p>
<p id="OgMj37">Ole Miss didn’t sign a recruit the expected caliber of A.J. Brown (No. 4 WR in 2016 class) or DaMarkus Lodge (No. 6 WR in 2015 class), but they put themselves in a good spot at the position, given the circumstances and competition they faced for each prospect.</p>
<h3 id="6Aoldb">And they signed linebackers, technically.</h3>
<p id="MKRoGj">The coaching staff didn’t find a hyped linebacker recruit, and it’s reasonable to say they failed in noticeably improving the perceived talent level of the unit. That being said, they found three big linebackers in the early signing period (JUCO Vernon Dasher, as well as high schoolers Jacquez Jones and Jonathan Hess) and followed that up with a 6’4, 220-pound Kevontae’ Ruggs (who never became a take for Alabama in spite of them losing tons of linebacker commitments and his brother being on the roster) along with Luke Knox (whose had other offers from Navy and the Ivy League).</p>
<p id="f1MhEq">That unit isn’t going to be magically better, but one or two of these guys contributing could go a long way in helping the group become a little less of a glaring weakness. It’s just that none of them are thought to be big difference makers by major programs. Those programs could certainly be wrong though.</p>
<p id="BZKYOh">One thing that could offset the misses at linebacker is the way Freddie Roach beefed up the defensive line room. JUCO signee Noah Jefferson is an immediate impact guy who will line up next to Benito Jones in the middle and could help keep centers and guards off linebackers, freeing them up to make plays. Now, can these new linebackers actually make the plays? That remains to be seen (looking at you, Jon Sumrall).</p>
<h3 id="oDl0O0">Of course, they also got their quarterback.</h3>
<p id="g7OP95">Jordan Ta’amu graduates next season (unless his waiver is approved), and there isn’t a ton waiting behind him. It was imperative for the coaching staff to add a strong quarterback this off season, and they did that, signing Matt Corral, the No. 4 pro-style quarterback in the country. Corral is likely to be very good if he can get a handle on when to force things and when to just toss the ball out of bounds.</p>
<p id="BaeMhp">This was a huge need, and they did an awesome job here.</p>
<h3 id="pm3i7o">But they missed on offensive line, running back, safeties, defensive ends, and quality players across the board.</h3>
<p id="DYH5E9">Offensive guard Tank Jenkins and running back Charles Strong signed with Texas A&M. Linebacker Jaylen Moody signed with Alabama. Linebacker Jayden McDonald signed with Iowa. The aforementioned Bush signed with Georgia. As I mentioned, I’m giving the coaches some level of leeway here, given all they were dealing with. That being said, a class outside the top 25 isn’t going to cut it in the SEC. They have to get back to competing against and beating the big boys for some quality players, and more than that, their depth can’t come from guys nobody else of note really wanted. There are only so many diamonds in the rough.</p>
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<p id="tIOa48">With next year’s loaded Mississippi class, anything outside the top 20 would be an absolute travesty and would hopefully put some heat on Matt Luke and his staff.</p>
https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/8/16980188/ole-miss-national-signing-day-2018-recruiting-analysis-matt-corral-miles-battle-letdown-tank-jenkinsJuco All-American2018-02-08T12:14:35-05:002018-02-08T12:14:35-05:00Not quite Landsharks again just yet
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<img alt="Georgia v Mississippi" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BVoWW2KUrli-s4IADYFlKq4fbK4=/1x0:3463x2308/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58623701/613071258.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Immediate help: check. Impact freshman: [fart].</p> <p id="Gm3jSm">Nicholas Carr reviewed the nice offensive haul Ole Miss pulled in yesterday; now we’ll review the defense. It doesn’t take a lot of analysis to see that the top talent in this class was a little offense-heavy; Matt Luke and co. signed three four-star players, and all three play offense. Though there were lots and lots of defensive misses, the Rebels still signed some guys that will help immediately, and some guys who will help build for the future. Let’s take a look.</p>
<h2 id="kPUZtZ">Defensive Tackle: B+</h2>
<h3 id="9q07o4">3-star <span>Noah Jefferson</span>
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<h3 id="kGlfSl">3-star Hal Northern</h3>
<h3 id="Cx0uJ4">3-star K.D. Hill</h3>
<h3 id="ROJ6LZ">3-star Quentin Bivens</h3>
<p id="DuHXWq">The Rebels definitely improved at defensive tackle, an overlooked weak spot last season. <span>Benito Jones</span> and <span>Josiah Coatney</span> made a serviceable starting unit in 2017 (even with Jones playing through a shoulder injury), but depth issues up front caused major inconsistencies against the run. </p>
<p id="Yj7Hr8">Ole Miss added two JUCO stars who could vastly improve the 2-deep right away. Jefferson was an elite prospect out of high school who played as a freshman for Southern Cal. Northern was a JUCO All-American who possesses a great first step, and has often been compared to a smaller Benito Jones. Hill and Bivens are solid high school prospects; Hill has several other good offers, while Bivens possesses a great frame. Bivens was also Ole Miss’ first commitment for the 2017 class, and never wavered. </p>
<h2 id="LtV7gy">Defensive End: C</h2>
<h3 id="2vAwS7">3-star James Williams</h3>
<p id="ToQbOS">Ole Miss loses their two starting defensive ends to the NFL, and it never quite seemed in the cards for the Rebels to seamlessly replace <span>Marquis Haynes</span> or Breeland Speaks. <span>James Williams</span> was an early signing period surprise: with a huge, athletic frame (about 6’5, 270-pounds), Williams was coveted heavily by both Ole Miss and Mississippi State. </p>
<p id="4SerBw">It’s possible that Ole Miss didn’t put a huge amount of emphasis on the defensive end position because they’re confident in some guys who were either injured or gaining experience during the 2017 season. <span>Victor Evans</span> and <span>Qaadir Sheppard</span> competed for starting reps before being limited by injuries all season, while <span>Charles Wiley</span> and <span>Ryder Anderson</span> showed promise as freshmen. Markel Winters also added some decent contributions in his first year out of junior college. </p>
<p id="PIDCWX">Still, unless all six scholarship ends contribute next year, depth at the position won’t be ideal. Mississippi’s 2019 recruiting class currently contains <strong>FIVE </strong>four-star defensive ends; Ole Miss will need to capitalize there. </p>
<h2 id="6MATdB">Linebacker: C+</h2>
<h3 id="LjOY91">3-star Vernon Dasher</h3>
<h3 id="NBmHar">3-star Kevontae’ Ruggs</h3>
<h3 id="cjHLaR">3-star <span>Jacquez Jones</span>
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<h3 id="WVODlB">3-star Jonathan Hess</h3>
<h3 id="seOKva">3-star Luke Knox</h3>
<p id="ZsEIHl">Okay. So linebacker has been a pretty problematic position for Ole Miss the last two seasons. One of the worst position groups in all of Power 5 football. Also, the two leading tacklers among Ole Miss linebackers both graduate. Probably not that important. Also, two young linebackers transferred. So there’s a lot going on, and not much of it is good. So perhaps there’s a little bit too much pressure on this linebacker class to be amazing, to revitalize the Ole Miss defense. That probably won’t happen right away, but there are some pieces to build on here. </p>
<p id="YAbCe5">Vernon Dasher is an excellent JUCO pickup who has the potential to start right away; he almost has to. Jacquez Jones is purported to be a heady, physical run-stopper who may be able to contribute as a freshman. Ruggs has tons of athleticism and physicality, but needs to add a little weight. Ruggs also played receiver and defensive back, so presumably he’ll also need time to learn the linebacker position inside and out. </p>
<p id="gAgJ8j">Like Ruggs, Hess and Knox both add excellent height/length for the linebacker position, and all have played multiple positions for their high school squads. Knox lacked major offers, but I’m a big fan of his highlights, and think he could contribute soon. I was certainly hoping that he could be convinced to walk on, but given the sheer number of misses on Wednesday, I’m not sure that it really matters. </p>
<p id="ScEniX">The real recruiting “win” at linebacker this year might have been hiring Jon Sumrall to replace the paperweight-esque Bradley Peveto. Sumrall has an impressive history of improving defenses wherever he’s been. As with the defensive end position, the 2019 Mississippi class at linebacker is pivotal. 5-star Nakobe Dean and 4-star <span>Zach Edwards</span> both like Ole Miss right now, but obviously their signatures will be hard-won.</p>
<h2 id="FF4J00">Defensive back: C-</h2>
<h3 id="QcQMrV">3-star <span>Cam White</span>
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<h3 id="UcdOAJ">3-star Jakorey Hawkins</h3>
<h3 id="RmotLX">3-star Keidron Smith</h3>
<h3 id="1VFcW5">2-star Tylan Knight</h3>
<p id="ZVQVCV">The Ole Miss secondary was mostly competent last season, and also returns most of the important pieces. A huge haul of corners and safeties wasn’t necessary, but Ole Miss likely failed to add any immediate contributors in 2018. With Wesley McGriff’s recruiting pedigree, along with solid recruiters in Charles Clark and Jason Jones… that’s a little disappointing. Cam White is a good safety signee who should be able to help in a couple of years. </p>
<p id="5Ux8fP">The national narrative was that there was a shortage of good cornerbacks this year. So while neither Hawkins nor Smith appear to be world-beaters, Ole Miss did have to fend off several other strong programs to keep them in the class. Tylan Knight might actually be the most likely signee to contribute, albeit his projected role at the college level is kind of all over the place. He could apply his David Eckstein-tier <a href="https://deadspin.com/5360379/the-utterance-of-this-word-should-be-punishable-by-death">scrappiness </a>at running back, slot receiver, nickel corner, and most likely of all, on special teams. </p>
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<h2 id="NqcjJv">Overall: C+</h2>
<p id="gky69M">The NCAA cloud, uncertainty regarding the coaching staff, and a weak Mississippi class really took a toll on the potential of this defensive class from the start. Still, SEC games are not graded on a curve, and recruiting shouldn’t be any different. While Ole Miss failed to find many pieces that should help right away, they added some key pieces at defensive tackle and linebacker, and added several intriguing (and at the very least, serviceable) prospects across the board. </p>
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https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/8/16991326/ole-miss-national-signing-day-2018-football-recruiting-james-williams-noah-jefferson-vernon-dasherWhiskey Wednesday2018-02-07T19:06:06-05:002018-02-07T19:06:06-05:00We have made our predictions for National Signing Day
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<img alt="National Signing Day" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/w2FtUjIDx7Ai4HPx2QVjsgnYiY4=/0x0:2250x1500/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58578723/108747247.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jeff Siner/Charlotte Observer/MCT via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Less than 48 hours away.</p> <p id="M7EO3Y"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/1/16959768/ole-miss-official-visit-list-football-recruiting-tank-jenkins-michael-ezeike-jayden-mcdonald">This past weekend was the final CROOTPALOOZA</a> weekend for Matt Luke and his staff and they ended up hosting quite a few important targets. A big-time offensive line target in Tank Jenkins made the trip and new linebackers coach Jon Sumrall got his final shot at getting three-star Jayden McDonald on board for the 2018 class. And newly-offered Tylan Knight made the trip North from Pearl to see what the Rebs have planned for him if he were to flip from ULL to the good guys.</p>
<p id="VsfL9o">So what now? The dead period has begun and will stay in effect until Thursday. After that, it goes “quiet” until April. But luckily, we don’t have to wait much longer because Wednesday, it all comes to a head and the Rebels will know who is part of the #MississippiMade class of 2018.</p>
<aside id="V45i5D"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data="{"stories":[{"title":"'Dead period?' 'Quiet period?' Explaining the NCAA's football recruiting calendar","url":"https://www.sbnation.com/college-football-recruiting/2014/12/17/7401635/ncaa-football-recruiting-periods-dead-quiet-evaluation"}]}"></div></aside><p id="aXffr8">The number of slots that are open is always up for debate because if you really want to know the truth, there is no way of actually acquiring said truth. But, here at The Cup, we go by the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04SLXwjJvqg">Bluth Rule</a>. Therefore, we believe that if Ole Miss needs room and a certain highly-sought after target wants to join, you can always make room. </p>
<p id="KzljqW">As of this writing, the Rebs are currently sitting 33rd in the country as a team and 9th in the Southeastern Conference. So before Wednesday happens, we rounded up our crootin experts here at The Cup and made our final predictions for the last 5-to-8 spots in this year’s class.</p>
<p id="crV3tv">And if you’d like, give us your predictions in the comments below.</p>
<p id="IYEj3y"><em>(All ratings are from the 247Sports composite rankings)</em></p>
<h3 id="hHuMsu">4-star Tommy Bush (SIGNED WITH GEORGIA)</h3>
<p id="8UhHYm"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> 196</p>
<p id="pWLOrX"><strong>Wide receiver rank:</strong> 37</p>
<p id="Lsj0jw"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Schertz, Texas</p>
<p id="ki6Iou"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="Om5eD3">Gray Hardison - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="9d9jJ6">Juco All-American - Texas</li>
<li id="CY0TPX">Nicholas Carr - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="2MQkvS">One Man to Beat - Georgia</li>
<li id="eGHlDD">Whiskey Wednesday - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="yGbLNq">Zach Berry - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
</ul>
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<h3 id="8jfESg">4-star Tank Jenkins (SIGNED WITH TEXAS A&M)</h3>
<p id="hZkxvC"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> 253</p>
<p id="kQ5F4w"><strong>Offensive guard rank:</strong> 11</p>
<p id="bKUWJb"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Montgomery, Alabama</p>
<p id="ftWhkc"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="Me3Mho">Gray Hardison - Oklahoma</li>
<li id="Fh8UrI">Juco All-American - Oklahoma</li>
<li id="WR2Q8h">Nicholas Carr - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="q68tMa">One Man to Beat - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="9oIi4V">Whiskey Wednesday - Oklahoma</li>
<li id="qO8foB">Zach Berry - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="Up4HVl"></h3>
<h3 id="4y7mIZ">4-star Miles Battle (SIGNED WITH OLE MISS)</h3>
<p id="2IDCYe"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> 330</p>
<p id="Nxi10e"><strong>Wide receiver rank:</strong> 330</p>
<p id="z8b2hB"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Houston, Texas</p>
<p id="kGKEF3"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="c65bA9">Gray Hardison - Oregon</li>
<li id="rTaagg">Juco All-American - Oregon</li>
<li id="uyZbRJ">Nicholas Carr - Oregon</li>
<li id="kLSr1z">One Man to Beat - Oregon</li>
<li id="6UIzxs">Whiskey Wednesday - Oregon</li>
<li id="iROUKP">Zach Berry - Oregon</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="1avPFM"></h3>
<h3 id="scOhGn">4-star Marquez Ezzard (SIGNED WITH MIAMI)</h3>
<p id="5c4Cj6"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> 344</p>
<p id="ZR0HGb"><strong>Athlete rank:</strong> 18</p>
<p id="29VVf2"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Stockbridge, Georgia</p>
<p id="NsK81x"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="Vv1BLy">Gray Hardison - Miami (Fla.)</li>
<li id="l2LVBl">Juco All-American - Miami (Fla.)</li>
<li id="kjDVXI">Nicholas Carr - Miami (Fla.)</li>
<li id="mzp93F">One Man to Beat - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="Mb3xm1">Whiskey Wednesday - Miami (Fla.)</li>
<li id="JjMBpb">Zach Berry - Miami (Fla.)</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="uACTFP"></h3>
<h3 id="9FyFkk">3-star Joseph Foucha (SIGNED WITH ARKANSAS)</h3>
<p id="yTe6KJ"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> 600</p>
<p id="tW67DD"><strong>Safety rank:</strong> 41</p>
<p id="QPnORS"><strong>Hometown: </strong>New Orleans, Louisiana</p>
<p id="qGoZdK"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="ZkJuiM">Gray Hardison - Arkansas</li>
<li id="wT3vai">Juco All-American - Arkansas</li>
<li id="3TALQz">Nicholas Carr - Arkansas</li>
<li id="dmPvGv">One Man to Beat - Arkansas</li>
<li id="eV88Mi">Whiskey Wednesday - Arkansas</li>
<li id="DT2NxF">Zach Berry - Arkansas</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="pqL5Mh"></h3>
<h3 id="ujS1fw">3-star Charles Strong (SIGNED WITH TEXAS A&M)</h3>
<p id="yAmSx7"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> 608</p>
<p id="iWIZMb"><strong>Running back rank:</strong> 11</p>
<p id="p5Azaa"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Lake Butler, Florida</p>
<p id="IUC7ns"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="tmosw7">Gray Hardison - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="UXos8M">Juco All-American - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="qxqPTn">Nicholas Carr - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="mFsHDs">One Man to Beat - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="Y5Mp6S">Whiskey Wednesday - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="u2qW37">Zach Berry - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="dKc5ek"></h3>
<h3 id="rfK0Yg">3-star Jayden McDonald (SIGNED WITH IOWA)</h3>
<p id="YU4Rox"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> 774</p>
<p id="FUSRRI"><strong>Outside Linebacker rank:</strong> 46</p>
<p id="FgiGgL"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Suwanee, Georgia</p>
<p id="YCLHOU"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="GAxgOM">Gray Hardison - Iowa</li>
<li id="bAReEo">Juco All-American - Iowa</li>
<li id="sVY2Y3">Nicholas Carr - Iowa</li>
<li id="8SvvWm">One Man to Beat - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="0PppJe">Whiskey Wednesday - Iowa</li>
<li id="lP0bUl">Zach Berry - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="Jm1DXD"></h3>
<h3 id="Oy1Mz3">3-star Jaylen Moody (SIGNED WITH ALABAMA)</h3>
<p id="Ki41C4"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> N/A</p>
<p id="RXjVCg"><strong>Inside linebacker rank:</strong> 50</p>
<p id="PjfITy"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Conway, South Carolina</p>
<p id="VawXAK"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="idVSPm">Gray Hardison - Alabama</li>
<li id="kLbtl0">Juco All-American - Alabama</li>
<li id="mByTyt">Nicholas Carr - Alabama</li>
<li id="sdNRL4">One Man to Beat - Arkansas</li>
<li id="j22bJW">Whiskey Wednesday - Alabama</li>
<li id="MkH7XH">Zach Berry - Alabama</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="sV6plL"></h3>
<h3 id="fSY4na">3-star Luke Knox (SIGNED WITH OLE MISS)</h3>
<p id="vf2WbT"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> N/A</p>
<p id="SjojhU"><strong>Outside linebacker rank:</strong> 154</p>
<p id="vDQBPx"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Brentwood, Tennessee</p>
<p id="I0UyXC"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="XP0kcL">Gray Hardison - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="yNojtU">Juco All-American - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="CLBGM2">Nicholas Carr - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="PGvdWC">One Man to Beat - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="HyAhu4">Whiskey Wednesday - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="TUMXGi">Zach Berry - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="ytSeKQ"></h3>
<h3 id="vNX5de">2-star Tylan Knight (SIGNED WITH OLE MISS)</h3>
<p id="aG1Fz9"><strong>Overall rank:</strong> N/A</p>
<p id="LKanLW"><strong>Cornerback rank:</strong> 304</p>
<p id="KmlPTM"><strong>Hometown: </strong>Pearl, Mississippi</p>
<p id="OcKjgE"><strong>Prediction:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="pTDiIg">Gray Hardison - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="cNewE5">Juco All-American - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="S6xT5s">Nicholas Carr - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="URO8Gs">One Man to Beat - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="Pe0bJO">Whiskey Wednesday - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
<li id="Kt4Irr">Zach Berry - <strong>OLE MISS</strong>
</li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="MPOqmE">
<h3 id="7rDxvZ">RED CUP SIGNING DAY PREDICTION STANDINGS</h3>
<p id="OvRqkO">Gray Hardison - 6-4</p>
<p id="67pjia">Juco All-American - 6-4</p>
<p id="he7jhh">Nicholas Carr - 6-4</p>
<p id="ho38fg">One Man to Beat - 5-5</p>
<p id="3MH4lj">Whiskey Wednesday - 6-4</p>
<p id="or6PKk">Zach Berry - 5-5</p>
<p id="V15amy"></p>
https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/5/16974362/ole-miss-football-rebels-national-signing-day-2018-predictions-matt-luke-miles-battle-tommy-bushZach BerryJuco All-AmericanOne Man To BeatGray HardisonWhiskey WednesdayNicholas Carr2018-02-07T19:03:53-05:002018-02-07T19:03:53-05:00Longo Ball crootin receives a B+ in 2018
<figure>
<img alt="Arkansas v Mississippi" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CgOBBU7-WEOZJLKe3q6zlHj8a-0=/0x0:2526x1684/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58615655/872138800.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Rebs trying to skunk people with this haul.</p> <p id="Q4dCBE">National Signing Day 2018 came and went and it couldn't have gone much better for Ole Miss on the offensive side of things. Matt Luke and his staff had a quick turnaround back in December before reeling in one of the nation’s top quarterbacks. Now, with another couple months on the job, they’ve hauled in a top 30 class. All while on double secret probation.</p>
<p id="UFJo3z">Let’s grade how the staff did offensively with just a few months under their belts.</p>
<h2 id="917W2b">Quarterbacks: A+</h2>
<h3 id="IstgWK">4-star Matt Corral</h3>
<p id="KY7h1a">Not much more can be said about the California kid. The Rebels ID’d their man and flipped him from Florida just as soon as they could get him on campus. The 6’2, 196-pound signal caller arrived in Oxford for the spring semester and will go through spring practice likely getting snaps with the second string. Getting a quarterback for the future—one who can take over after <span>Jordan Ta’amu</span> leaves—was a major win for Phil Longo and Co.</p>
<h2 id="gwokp0">Running Backs: B-</h2>
<h3 id="r5wr16">3-star Scottie Phillips</h3>
<p id="lyjFmI">Ole Miss got its thunder and lightning all in one with juco signee Scottie Phillips. Phillips, a 5’9, 205-pound back out of Jones County Junior College arrived along with Corral in January. He was rated the number two prospect at his position in junior college, amassing over 2,200 yards and 27 touchdowns during his time in Ellisville. Expect the extra practice time to give Phillips a head start on earning the majority of carries this season. Look for Phillips to shoot to the top of the depth chart entering fall camp.</p>
<p id="dSgsF1">The Rebels really needed to sign a larger running back class this year. The signing day loss of Charles Strong hurt from a pure numbers perspective, whether or not Strong could’ve played in year one remained up for debate. Still, a tough one to swallow on signing day.</p>
<h2 id="wrvyfd">Wide Receivers: A+</h2>
<h3 id="f1syDk">4-star Elijah Moore</h3>
<h3 id="8b1Dv2">4-star Miles Battle</h3>
<h3 id="hx0K2q">3-star Demarcus Gregory</h3>
<p id="PL4P0Z">Whether the nWo would bring in a huge signing day haul was never in doubt. Jacob Peeler adds size with Battle and Gregory and speed with Elijah Moore in the slot position. Miles Battle is 6’4, 190-pounds and chose Ole Miss over Oregon. His final list included a who’s who of pass heavy teams. That he chose the good guys shows what recruits thing of Jacob Peeler. </p>
<p id="UIeczo">Peeler also brought in former Georgia commit Elijah Moore. He hails from football powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas and has already enrolled on campus in Oxford. Again, that extra time with the program should give Moore a head start towards taking some of the receptions <span>Van Jefferson</span> left behind. Fortunately for the Rebs, Moore is known for his good hands and running ability in space.</p>
<p id="AmVTiG">The Rebels also brought in 6’3, 204-pound Demarcus Gregory. The lowest-rated receiver in the class, DMG’s size and speed will remind folks of Quincy Adeboyejo. He possesses top end speed and measurables nearly identical to the Baltimore Ravens pass catcher. That comparison alone tells you what kind of talent this staff is bringing in to join the nWo.</p>
<h2 id="7NNrYI">Offensive Line: C+</h2>
<h3 id="mnPSV4">3-star Jalen Cunningham</h3>
<h3 id="sAbGq5">3-star Hamilton Hall</h3>
<p id="SB2uad">Jack Bicknell Jr. was brought in back in July for his extensive coaching experience which included numerous stops in the NFL. That he hauled in a massive—literally and figuratively—offensive line class is just a bonus.</p>
<p id="Qgai9P">The Rebels needed a big haul considering Ole Miss will likely lose four of its five starters along the offensive line after the 2018 season. While they got it from a size perspective, the number of signees could hurt down the road. Typically coaches like to sign between three and four lineman a class, but with a mass exodus expected at the end of next season, I’m sure Matt Luke would’ve liked to have gotten those numbers up.</p>
<p id="d2SCXa">The class is led by tackle Hamilton Hall out of Chamblee Charter in Atlanta, and Jalen Cunningham a 6’6, 345-pound lineman from St. Clair County High in Alabama. Cunningham is rated as a defensive tackle but will likely side with the offense once he arrives in Oxford. He chose the Rebels over the home state Crimson Tide. Cunningham has the size to play on the interior but the frame to cut weight and move to the outside. </p>
<p id="ZWh9IZ">Hamilton Hall is a first-guy-off-the-bus type the day he steps foot on campus. Scott Frost came in late for the 6’5, 315-pound tackle but the Rebels held off one of college football’s hottest coaches for his services. Hall possesses a quick first step and incredible upper body strength which along with his frame should translate quickly to the SEC.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="pt9xhA">
<h2 id="eJsJ5r">Overall: B+</h2>
<p id="vkeUsl">Short of landing Charles Strong, I’m really not sure what Peeler, Nix, Bicknell, and Matt Luke could have done to improve at the offensive skill positions. It was a rinse and repeat year for the nWo, signing three high-level receivers who should all contribute next fall. The running back room may not be where Luke would like in year two, so look for that position to be one of desperate need as the recruiting cycle looks towards the 2019 class. Especially since all signs point to 2019 4-star running back commit Jerrion Ealy going pro in baseball. </p>
<p id="35QUTd">They struck out on a couple of their top offensive line targets, but still held it together with two high ceiling signees at the guard position. This staff was known for its ability to identify and develop offensive talent and the 2018 class seems to be more of the same. </p>
https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/7/16983658/ole-miss-national-signing-day-2018-recap-longo-ball-is-about-to-be-funNicholas Carr2018-02-07T18:58:58-05:002018-02-07T18:58:58-05:00Ole Miss National Signing Day tracker
<figure>
<img alt="Mississippi v Mississippi State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/vmLxOIvKQDjzGPIBIrT48ngnS6M=/0x39:2857x1944/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58596511/878151074.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Butch Dill/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We’ll be updating this constantly throughout the day. Just remember to minimize the window when your boss walks by.</p> <p id="o4igRU">It’s the most wonderful time of the year again! For the majority of Wednesday morning and afternoon, the decisions of high school and junior college prospects will decide their fate with a simple ball cap and ballpoint pen and commit to a certain athletic program out of the goodness of their heart and their love of the game. It really has nothing to do with money or cars or houses or apartments or stuff of that nature.</p>
<p id="qiOw8o">To help you sift through the insanity that is Ole Miss’ 2018 National Signing Day, we've set up this post in order to track who's signing where and who's still up for grabs. Below, you’ll see four lists: 1) recruits who have signed LOIs with Ole Miss, 2) recruits who have committed to the Rebs, 3) targets who remain uncommitted and 4) recruits who have committed or signed with other schools. We’ll be moving guys from list to list throughout the day as updates come in. </p>
<p id="TKZJUL">So for example: a guy might start in the <strong>targets</strong> list, then get moved to the <strong>committed to Ole Miss</strong> list after his announcement ceremony, then get moved to the <strong>signed with Ole Miss</strong> list after his LOI comes in.</p>
<p id="4jfq7W">Got it? Good. </p>
<h2 id="70Jclm">Signed with Ole Miss</h2>
<p id="G6PTtb">These guys have sent in their letters of intent. They’re listed in order of when Ole Miss confirmed receipt of the LOI.</p>
<ol>
<li id="kQXFRV">
<a href="https://www.chatsports.com/mississippi-rebels/a/source/4-star-qb-matt-corral-flips-from-florida-to-ole-miss-14165324">4-star QB Matt Corral</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="Whg2DI">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/12/20/15776148/ole-miss-football-recruiting-rebels-elijah-moore-st-thomas-aquinas-flip-sign-jacob-peeler-georgia">4-star WR Elijah Moore</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="yHzA21">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/12/20/16764812/ole-miss-football-jalen-cunningham-commit-alabama-saint-clair-county-school-freddie-roach">3-star DT Jalen Cunningham</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="1K76IU">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/12/20/15569708/ole-miss-football-recruiting-james-williams-sin-early-mississippi-state-lol-merry-flipmas-callaway">3-star SDE James Williams</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="PEO27G">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/5/28/15491824/ole-miss-football-recruiting-wr-demarcus-gregory-jacob-peeler-byrnes-rebels-early-signing-day-2017">3-star WR Demarcus Gregory</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="sWvj6t">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/7/1/15909960/ole-miss-football-recruiting-juco-scott-phillips-rebels-signee-jones-county-macjc-njcaa">3-star RB Scottie Phillips</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="E0Onjq">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/12/20/16658152/ole-miss-football-recruiting-vernon-dasher-juco-coffeyville-community-college-ks-state-linebacker">3-star OLB Vernon Dasher</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="nMgXaU">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/9/8/15768802/ole-miss-football-recruiting-jacquez-jones-signee-rebels-alabama-peveto-linebacker">3-star OLB Jacquez Jones</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="HMNKyO">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/10/5/16431770/ole-miss-football-recruiting-northwest-community-college-hal-northern-juco-macjc-freddie-roach">3-star DT Hal Northern</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="j0F8QN">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/6/5/15742588/ole-miss-football-recruiting-rebel-kd-hill-sign-alabama-auburn-kentucky-georgia-tech-freddie-roach">3-star DT K.D. Hill</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="bnbQho">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/12/8/15937026/ole-miss-football-recruiting-signee-cameron-white-madison-central-2018-class-defensive-back">3-star S Cam White</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="imZQi7">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/4/30/15490874/ole-miss-football-recruiting-sign-quentin-bivens-2018-wayne-county-early-signing-day-landsharks">3-star DT Quentin Bivens</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="teacqU">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/11/26/16702160/ole-miss-football-recruiting-signing-early-signing-day-oxbridge-academy-florida-defense-landshark">3-star CB Keidron Smith</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="NCmg3F">
<a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/6/21/15743966/ole-miss-football-recruiting-jonathan-hess-rebels-vestavia-hills-defense-landsharks-wesley-mcgriff">3-star OLB Jonathan Hess</a> (early signing period)</li>
<li id="9qbAdu"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/1/29/16836686/ole-miss-football-recruiting-2018-signing-day-georgia-hamilton-hall-offensive-line-jack-bicknell">3-star OG Hamilton Hall</a></li>
<li id="ohHjp4"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/7/15784452/ole-miss-football-recruiting-luke-knox-tennessee-brentwood-academy-linebacker-2018-signing-day">3-star OLB Luke Knox</a></li>
<li id="ezDLIb"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2017/10/25/15870218/ole-miss-football-recruiting-rebels-jakorey-hawkins-alabama-auburn-robert-e-lee-commit-landsharks">3-star CB JaKorey Hawkins</a></li>
<li id="czQdt9"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/1/29/16710480/ole-miss-football-recruiting-kevontae-ruggs-commit-bama-texas-am-matt-luke-nick-saban-jimbo-fisher">3-star OLB Kevontae’ Ruggs</a></li>
<li id="kSt3t7"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/5/15736696/ole-miss-football-recruiting-miles-battle-national-signing-day-houston-texas-oregon-rebels-ducks">4-star WR Miles Battle</a></li>
<li id="N67QFq"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/7/16794138/ole-miss-football-recruiting-tylan-knight-flip-louisiana-lafayette-2018-athlete-pearl-signing-day">2-star CB Tylan Knight</a></li>
<li id="8Dugk2"><a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/1/29/13436108/ole-miss-football-recruiting-rebels-noah-jefferson-national-signing-day-florida-arkansas-juco">3-star DT Noah Jefferson</a></li>
</ol>
<p id="SkLpAT"></p>
<h2 id="lHDaYA">The ones that got away</h2>
<p id="DLHky1">These guys have taken money from other schools. </p>
<ol>
<li id="ZTbkUO">3-star OLB Jayden McDonald <a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/5/16807356/ole-miss-football-recruiting-signing-day-2018-jayden-mcdonald-georgia-north-gwinnett-linebacker">(signed with Iowa)</a>
</li>
<li id="4N2aSi">4-star WR Marquez Ezzard (signed with Miami)</li>
<li id="5JShzQ">4-star OG Tank Jenkins (signed with Texas A&M)</li>
<li id="pQDVDa">3-star ILB Jaylen Moody (signed with Alabama)</li>
<li id="0oFsty">3-star S Joseph Foucha (signed with Arkansas)</li>
<li id="NSYfxy">3-star ILB Andrew Parker (signed with Arkansas)</li>
<li id="WmaTy5">4-star WR Tommy Bush (signed with Georgia)</li>
<li id="JInlc6">3-star TE Glenn Beal (signed with Texas A&M)</li>
<li id="t61YcU">3-star RB Charles Strong (signed with Texas A&M)</li>
</ol>
https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/7/16980516/ole-miss-national-signing-day-2018-commitments-loi-rebels-matt-luke-mississippi-made-rebels-secZach Berry2018-02-07T15:04:18-05:002018-02-07T15:04:18-05:00Rebs reload at DL with a nice mix of JUCO and prep signees
<figure>
<img alt="Arkansas v Mississippi" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FH9F8W6andkzQmw99MS21eT-VJQ=/0x0:5093x3395/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58611559/872138954.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The former Southern Cal Trojan headlines the class.</p> <p id="TpXaEX">Almost any good defensive scheme starts with a disrupting, chaos inducing defensive line. </p>
<p id="yQGeym">The Rebels were looking to fill the shoes of two chaos wrecking balls in <span>Marquis Haynes</span> and <span>Breeland Speaks</span> who are off to the green pastures of the NFL.</p>
<p id="lOojSA">Ole Miss went into signing day this year with Quentin Bivens, Hal Northern, K.D. Hill and James Williams already in the house from the early signing period in December. But, now that the class is complete, let’s see how the coaches did.</p>
<h3 id="wvduKv">The Headliner</h3>
<p id="ME3Lxh">One player that defensive line coach Freddie Roach loved in this year’s class was <span>Noah Jefferson</span> (6’6, 330-pounds) out of Arizona Western College. Jefferson figures to be an immediate impact player on the defensive line as a former four-star recruit out of high school who played his freshman year at Southern Cal. You certainly can’t coach “experience” into a player, and Jefferson logged valuable snaps in Los Angeles against Pac-12 opponents. He’s back in the Power 5 with something to prove, and you should expect to see his name filling a box score this fall alongside fellow big fella, <span>Benito Jones</span>.</p>
<h3 id="WLD9OJ">Another JUCO stud</h3>
<p id="8QL84a">Hal Northern (6’2, 290-pounds) stands out as the next most likely immediate impact player for the Rebels. I think he’s a little more of a project than Jefferson because he’s been in junior college ball for his entire college career, so there will be a learning curve there and a speed curve to adjust to. He earned JUCO All-American honors at Northwest Mississippi Community Collge in the insanely competitive Mississippi Junior College ranks. From the tape, it looks like he fires off the ball and looks to cause problems in the backfield more so than being a space eater.</p>
<h3 id="P9OOUb">Don’t forget about the high schoolers</h3>
<p id="UsOTNr">Quentin Bivens was coached by good ole boy Todd Mangum at Wayne County, an Ole Miss stronghold. He is a prototypical defensive tackle at 6’3, 288-pounds. He racked up a ton of tackles (66 his senior year) while at Wayne County and forced four fumbles along the way. He’ll help to add depth to a defensive line that needs to be rotated constantly given the frenetic pace of the Ole Miss offense. </p>
<p id="SHMy7M">How quickly he can adapt to SEC speed will be the big question here for his output freshman year. The tape shows great burst off the line and pretty good hands clearly capable of getting off blocks at that level.</p>
<p id="yksNY1">K.D. Hill hails from the Iron State and comes in at 6’2, 275-pounds. From the tape I’ve seen at the MS-AL All Star game, he looks a little undersized, so he is going to have to work his way into some playing time the next four years potentially. He has some ability to bull his way through a line at the high school level, so look for him to be a little big of a project for a couple years.</p>
<p id="6WwQDP">James Williams is the fourth-ranked player out of the Magnolia state, fans are going to remember him for a while as a player that was flipped from Mississippi State. There is some question, let’s get it out of the way, that he won’t be on campus this fall due to academic concerns. Maybe that happens and he ends up at Jones County, and maybe it all pulls together. </p>
<p id="ofmllY">His mentor is <span>Breeland Speaks</span>, which to me is delightful. He’s got a slimmer build right now at 6’6, 265-pounds, so he could really go either route of interior or outside. Tape shows him as a sound tackler, able to get off blocks and someon who has a good motor. </p>
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<p id="ER0IAO">Ultimately, replacing a <span>Marquis Haynes</span> or Breeland Speaks is very difficult, and it’s hard to say one of these guys will surpass what Haynes or Speaks did while in Oxford. I feel confident in saying none have the speed that Haynes possessed which was really elite in all honesty, but there may be a potential for a couple solid contributors in 2018 and beyond in this group.</p>
https://www.redcuprebellion.com/2018/2/7/16987264/ole-miss-national-signing-day-2018-recap-defensive-line-signees-football-recruitingOne Man To Beat