16powers.com takes a look at each SEC team’s biggest strength and biggest weakness heading into the 2026 season. In this segment we’ll look at the Ole Miss Rebels.
Ole Miss Rebels
Biggest Strength — Backfield
Ole Miss enters 2026 with one of America’s best offensive backfields. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and running back Kewan Lacy give Pete Golding two proven playmakers around whom to build the offense. PFF rates Chambliss as its No. 4 quarterback nationally and Lacy as its No. 2 running back. That’s an extraordinary starting point for a program replacing Lane Kiffin after its historic run to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Lacy gives the Rebels the ability to establish the run without sacrificing explosiveness, while Chambliss provides experience and playmaking ability at the most important position. Their presence should also help stabilize the transition to a new coaching era. Opponents cannot simply commit additional defenders to stopping Lacy because Chambliss can punish them through the air. Few SEC teams enter 2026 with such a proven quarterback-running back combination.
Biggest Weakness — Offensive Line
The offensive line is the obvious question. Both starting tackles must be replaced, and PFF notes that all three returning interior starters recorded grades below 65.0 last season. That combination creates concern because the Rebels could have excellent skill-position players but struggle to consistently give them room to operate. Offensive tackle becomes particularly important against an SEC schedule filled with elite edge rushers. If the new tackles cannot handle one-on-one assignments, Ole Miss will have to use tight ends and running backs in protection, reducing the number of receiving options available to Chambliss. Problems inside could also limit Lacy’s effectiveness. The Rebels don’t need a dominant line, but they do need a dependable one. If that unit becomes merely average-to-good, Ole Miss possesses enough offensive talent to remain a contender. If protection repeatedly breaks down, it could become the weakness that prevents another playoff run.
