With the College Football Playoff just days away, Ole Miss fans have reason to feel optimistic. The Rebels (11-1) head into their opening-round clash against Tulane (11-2) with a relatively clean injury report-and that’s no small thing in December football.
The two teams are set to square off on Dec. 20 at 2:30 p.m. CT on TNT, and if the first meeting between them this season is any indication, Ole Miss will be looking to replicate a dominant performance.
Back on Sept. 20, the Rebels rolled past Tulane 45-10 at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, controlling every phase of the game. While that win won’t carry over on the scoreboard, it certainly sets a tone. And now, with the postseason here, both teams are required to release nightly injury reports ahead of the matchup-giving us a clearer picture of who’s ready and who might be limited.
Ole Miss Injury Outlook: Mostly Positive
The biggest name to watch for the Rebels is tight end Dae'Quan Wright, who is listed as probable. That’s good news for an Ole Miss offense that values its tight ends in both the passing game and blocking schemes.
Wright has hauled in 30 catches and found the end zone four times this season, giving quarterback Jaxson Dart a reliable target over the middle and in the red zone. His availability would be a significant boost.
Another tight end, Trace Bruckler, is also listed as probable, while Hayden Bradley is questionable. Lane Kiffin’s offense often leans on multiple tight end sets, so having at least two of the three available could help keep the playbook wide open.
On the defensive side, cornerback Antonio Kite is questionable. Kite has made 25 tackles this season and has been a steady presence in the secondary. His status will be worth monitoring, especially against a Tulane team that may look to push the ball downfield more aggressively this time around.
Unfortunately, Ole Miss will be without three key players: cornerback Cedrick Beavers, linebacker Raymond Collins, and offensive lineman John Wayne Oliver are all ruled out. Beavers and Collins are notable losses on defense, particularly against a Tulane offense that will be looking to exploit any gaps. Oliver’s absence on the offensive line could also test the Rebels’ depth up front.
Tulane Dealing With a Longer List
Tulane enters the game with a more crowded injury report, and several of the names on it could impact their ability to keep pace with the Rebels.
The Green Wave will be without linebacker Dickson Agu, tight end LeRon Husbands, defensive end Gerrod Henderson, defensive back Jayden Lewis, and kicker Cooper Heimke. That’s a tough hit to multiple units-especially on defense, where depth and rotation are critical against a high-tempo Ole Miss offense.
Wide receiver Bryce Bohannon is listed as doubtful, which could limit Tulane’s vertical threat. However, the good news for the Green Wave is that a number of key contributors are probable, including quarterback Kadin Semonza, safety Jack Tchienchou, cornerback Josh Sims, and slot defender Michael Igbinoghene. Having Semonza available is especially critical-he’s the engine of the offense, and Tulane’s chances hinge on his ability to stay upright and make plays.
The offensive line also looks like it’ll be near full strength, with Tristan Fortenberry, Mitch Hodnett, and Derrick Graham all listed as probable. That’s a big deal when you’re facing an aggressive Ole Miss front that likes to bring pressure and collapse the pocket.
What It All Means
Injury reports don’t always tell the full story, but they can offer strong clues about how a game might unfold. For Ole Miss, the relatively clean bill of health-especially on offense-means they should be able to execute their game plan without major limitations. The absence of a few defensive contributors could open the door for Tulane to find some rhythm, but the Rebels’ depth has held up well all season.
For Tulane, it’s about navigating the absences and leaning on the players who are trending toward full participation. If Semonza is truly good to go and the offensive line can hold its own, the Green Wave have a shot to make this more competitive than the first meeting.
But make no mistake-Ole Miss is in a strong position heading into this one. They’ve got the momentum, the firepower, and now, the health to make a serious push in the playoff.