Ole Miss Rebels Reflect on Season

The Ole Miss Rebels had what many consider to be one of the best seasons in their history, yet for Kiwan Lacy, it didn’t feel quite successful.

“I’m evaluated based on not winning the top award,” the star running back shared in a recent conversation.

Despite the ongoing chaos surrounding Lane Kiffin’s departure to LSU right before the playoffs, the Rebels managed to push through. It left a lot of uncertainty during the postseason; teams often didn’t know which assistant coaches would be present since many had followed Kiffin to the new school.

Lacy pointed out, “The season didn’t meet our expectations. The main goal is to win the national championship, but I tried to ignore outside distractions and focused on one game at a time.”

He acknowledged the complexities of football: “There’s a business side to it. Everyone has their responsibilities. Regardless of who’s coaching, once you’re on the field, you have to play.” For him, it boiled down to maintaining the right mindset and competing effectively.

This season, Lacy is set to wear the Q-Collar, the only FDA-approved sports gear designed to safeguard the brain from repeated head impacts. It’s worn around the neck and gently limits brain movement during play.

Interestingly, it was Lacy’s mother who discovered the Q-Collar and recommended it. “She noticed other players using it and thought it might be beneficial for both me and my brother,” Lacy explained. “It’s helped me a lot in being sharp on the field and maximizing my time in the game.”

He feels there’s more to be done for athlete safety. The Q-Collar, he believes, is just the beginning in finding ways to ensure athletes remain safer and play longer.

As an All-American player, Lacy seeks to gain those crucial extra yards with added protection. With players like Trinidad Chambliss returning, expectations remain high for both Lacy and the Rebels this season.

“With all the new staff and resources we have, I think we need to take it game by game. I truly believe we can achieve even more this year,” he stated.