Ole Miss Rebels vs Arkansas Razorbacks Picks and Predictions September 13th 2025

Rebels Seek Improvement After Shaky Win

No. 17 Ole Miss heads back home to Oxford on Saturday to host Arkansas in a key Southeastern Conference matchup. The Rebels survived their SEC opener with a 30-23 victory over Kentucky, but it was far from perfect. Quarterback Austin Simmons threw two early interceptions that put his team in a 10-0 hole before settling in to lead the comeback.

Coach Lane Kiffin admitted the Rebels have plenty to correct, particularly turnovers and the inability to force takeaways. Simmons, who left late with an ankle injury, is expected to play, though senior Trinidad Chambliss is ready if needed. It was Simmons’ first road start, and Kiffin stressed that growing pains are part of the process at any level.

For fans tracking SEC programs week-to-week, check the updated college football team pages and the latest NCAAF scores and odds to stay ahead of key storylines.

Ground Game Provides Balance

Ole Miss leaned heavily on its rushing attack to stabilize the offense. Kewan Lacy led the way with 138 yards and a touchdown, while Simmons added 44 rushing yards and another score. The Rebels totaled 220 rushing yards overall, showing the kind of balance Kiffin believes is critical in tough SEC road environments.

Looking ahead to this week’s action, you can find in-depth breakdowns in the college football previews section, covering every matchup on the slate.

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Arkansas Faces First Real Test

Arkansas enters SEC play at 2-0 after easy wins over Alabama A&M and Arkansas State, outscoring its opponents 108-21. While those games showcased offensive depth, Razorbacks coach Sam Pittman acknowledged his team has yet to face adversity. He noted that leadership is revealed when challenges arrive, and Saturday’s clash in Oxford will provide that test.

The Razorbacks also have last year’s blowout loss to Ole Miss on their minds. In 2024, Arkansas gave up 694 total yards, including 562 passing yards, in a 63-31 defeat. Pittman said that embarrassing night should fuel returning players, while also cautioning that his defense has not yet faced an opponent of Ole Miss’ caliber.

Keys to the Matchup

Turnovers loom large, as the Rebels cannot afford a repeat of their early struggles against Kentucky. Simmons’ ankle health is also critical, as Ole Miss needs his poise and dual-threat ability. Arkansas must prove its defense has improved after last year’s debacle and respond with resilience when adversity strikes.

For those evaluating betting opportunities, the latest college football picks provide expert insight into this matchup and others around the SEC. Bettors can also explore the buy picks page for premium selections and track top performers on the handicapper leaderboard