In Week 2 of the 2025 regular season, the Ole Miss Rebels will travel to Lexington to take on the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. The game is set for Saturday, September 6, 2025, with a kickoff at 3:30 PM. Viewers can catch the action live on ABC.
Ole Miss enters the game with a 1-0 record, having delivered an impressive 63-7 victory over Georgia State in their season opener. Ranked #20 in the AP Poll and #14 in the Coaches Poll, Ole Miss aims to continue their strong start on the road in their conference debut.
Meanwhile, Kentucky also stands at 1-0, having secured a 24-16 win against Toledo in their first game. With the home advantage at Kroger Field, the Wildcats will look to build on their success as they face their first SEC opponent of the season.
Kentucky vs Ole Miss At a Glance
- Game Venue: Kroger Field in Lexington, KY
- Game Date & Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 3:30 PM
- Broadcast: Watch on ABC
- Ole Miss Rebels Ranking: Ranked #20 in AP and #14 in Coaches Poll
- Season Records: Both Ole Miss Rebels and Kentucky Wildcats are 1-0 this season
- Game Odds: Ole Miss favored with a -368 moneyline; Spread set at Ole Miss -10.0
Unpacking Kentucky: A Deep Dive into the Wildcats’ Upcoming Battle
Offensive Performance Analysis
The Kentucky Wildcats have had a challenging start to their 2025 season offensively, ranking 126th in passing yards with a total of 85. However, their rushing game has been more promising, amassing 221 yards and holding the 35th position. This duality in their offensive strategy could dictate their play-calling in future games.
First downs have been a bright spot for Kentucky, ranked 24th with 17 in their recent game against Toledo. This ability to move the chains effectively can be crucial as they look to maintain possession and control the tempo. Their ability to secure first downs could compensate for their passing shortcomings.
Defensive Strengths
Kentucky’s defense has been robust, particularly in preventing points, ranking 12th with just 16 points allowed. Sacks and interceptions have been pivotal for their defensive unit, with three sacks ranking them 5th and one interception placing them 2nd. These defensive strengths could be critical in maintaining low scores against opponents.
Their defense against the rush was notable in their opener, holding Toledo to just 59 rushing yards. This capacity to stifle the run game will be vital in limiting opponent scoring opportunities. Their disciplined defensive approach is reflected in their ability to recover fumbles, ranking 4th in this category.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Zach Calzada managed 85 passing yards in the opening game, indicating potential areas for improvement. Running back Dante Dowdell showcased his skills with 129 rushing yards, placing him 19th in national rankings. Dowdell’s performance will be essential in the Wildcats’ offensive plans.
Tight end Josh Kattus emerged as a reliable target with 43 receiving yards and three receptions. His involvement in the passing game could be pivotal in diversifying Kentucky’s aerial attack. These players’ contributions will likely be crucial as Kentucky seeks to elevate their offensive output.
Kentucky Wildcats Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Day Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Home Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS in Home Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U as Favorite: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U in Home Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
Ole Miss Rebels Set to Challenge Kentucky Wildcats: A Game of Strategy and Skill
Team Overview
The Ole Miss Rebels have kicked off their 2025 season in commanding fashion, securing a decisive 63-7 win over the Georgia State Panthers. Their offensive prowess was on full display with a staggering 400 passing yards and 295 rushing yards. Currently ranked 9th in points scored, the Rebels are a team to watch this season.
On defense, the Rebels have shown formidable strength, limiting the Panthers to just 7 points. Their ability to pressure the quarterback is evident from their 7th rank in sacks. Ole Miss also ranks 2nd in interceptions, showcasing a well-rounded defensive unit.
Offensive Strengths
Austin Simmons, the Rebels’ quarterback, had an impressive start, throwing for 341 yards, ranking 1st among his peers. With three passing touchdowns, Simmons is a key player driving the Rebels’ offense. Kewan Lacy adds a dynamic presence in the backfield, with 108 rushing yards and three touchdowns in the season opener.
Wide receiver Harrison Wallace III made significant contributions with 130 receiving yards. His ability to stretch the field provides the Rebels with a potent vertical threat. Dae’Quan Wright and Caleb Odom, both tight ends, contribute further with solid receptions and touchdowns.
Defensive Highlights
In their first game, the Rebels’ defense held Georgia State to just 69 passing yards. This indicates a secondary that can limit opposing offenses effectively. Their defensive line’s ability to recover fumbles, ranked 4th, adds to their defensive edge.
Linebackers and defensive backs have also shown their potential with timely interceptions. The team’s defensive statistics suggest a unit capable of making game-changing plays. This defensive consistency will be crucial against more competitive teams like the Kentucky Wildcats.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
Upcoming Challenges
The Rebels will travel to face the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. This away game poses a new set of challenges and opportunities for Ole Miss. With their current momentum, the Rebels aim to continue their winning streak and strengthen their standing.
Injuries may play a role as several key players are listed as questionable. Maintaining their current level of play, despite these challenges, will be essential for success against Kentucky. As the season progresses, the Rebels’ depth and strategic adjustments will be tested.
Kentucky vs Ole Miss Prediction: Kentucky +10.0
In this Week 2 matchup, Ole Miss heads to Kroger Field to take on Kentucky. Ole Miss is ranked 20th in the AP Poll, coming off an impressive 52-20 win against Duke in the Gator Bowl. However, Kentucky has shown resilience at home, starting the season with a win and covering the spread in their last three games.
The Rebels’ offense is formidable, ranking 9th in points for and 10th in passing yards. Yet, Kentucky’s defense has been strong, limiting opponents to just 16 points in their opening game. This defensive strength, combined with the home-field advantage, suggests that Kentucky can keep this game closer than the 10-point spread suggests.
Kentucky’s ATS record stands at 1-0 this season, showing they can exceed expectations in similar scenarios. Despite Ole Miss’s potent offense, Kentucky’s defensive capabilities and home advantage will likely keep them within the spread. The Wildcats’ ability to play strong defense and control the game tempo will be crucial.
In conclusion, the prediction leans towards Kentucky covering the spread at +10.0. The projected final score reflects a competitive game, with Ole Miss winning but not by a large margin.
- Kentucky vs Ole Miss Prediction: Kentucky +10.0
- Kentucky vs Ole Miss Score: Ole Miss 28 – Kentucky 21
