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Mississippi (1-0) at Kentucky (1-0)
- When: Sep 6 2025, 3:30 PM
- Where: Kroger Field, Kroger Field
- Where to watch: ABC
- Last Meeting: Kentucky 20-17, September 28th, 2024
(20) Mississippi vs Kentucky Preview & Prediction
Spread: Mississippi -9.0
Moneyline: Mississippi -350
Total: 50.0
Ole Miss Rebels Betting Outlook
The Rebels (-9.0 favorite, O/U 50.0) looked unstoppable in Week 1, rolling to a 63-7 demolition of Georgia State. Lane Kiffin’s squad piled up 695 total yards, with 400 through the air, and completely stifled the Panthers’ passing attack, holding them to just 69 yards.
Quarterback Austin Simmons, finally stepping into the spotlight after backing up Jaxson Dart, impressed by completing 20 of 31 passes for 341 yards. Missouri transfer Kewan Lacy also made a splash, rushing for 108 yards and three touchdowns on only 16 carries. The defense wasn’t perfect, Kiffin wants sharper tackling and fewer turnovers, but it was more than enough against an overmatched non-conference foe.
Still, Kiffin is quick to remind his team that non-conference dominance doesn’t guarantee SEC success. Last season Ole Miss rolled through September only to fall flat in the SEC opener, ironically to Kentucky. This week is about proving that lesson stuck.
Kentucky Wildcats Betting Outlook
The Wildcats didn’t have the same offensive fireworks in their opener, grinding out a 24-16 win over Toledo. Zach Calzada, making his debut under center, struggled to find rhythm, going 10-of-23 for 85 yards. Coach Mark Stoops admitted the veteran quarterback looked like he was pressing and needs to settle down.
Fortunately, Kentucky found success on the ground, as Dante Dowdell rumbled for 129 yards and a touchdown, powering an offense that finished with 305 total yards. The defense held Toledo to just 59 rushing yards, added three sacks, and registered six tackles for loss.
Last year’s upset win over Ole Miss was a bright spot in an otherwise rough 4-8 campaign. This time around, Kentucky will need better quarterback play to avoid falling behind quickly against a Rebels offense capable of scoring in bunches.
Prediction & Betting Angle
Ole Miss has more firepower, more depth, and the urgency to avenge last year’s SEC opener loss. Kentucky’s defense should keep things competitive early, but without a consistent passing attack, they’ll have trouble matching Simmons and Lacy drive-for-drive. Rebels’ defense should keep Calzada in check while controlling tempo on offense.
Final Score: Ole Miss 31, Kentucky 17
Lean: Ole Miss -9.0
Total: Under 50.0
- NCAA Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
