Ole Miss Star Running Back Stays Focused as Former Coach Returns with LSU

Ole Miss will host the LSU Tigers in Oxford on Saturday night, marking the first meeting between the Rebels and Lane Kiffin’s new team since Kiffin’s departure from Ole Miss before last season’s College Football Playoff. The matchup carries added intrigue because running back Kewan Lacy, a key offensive weapon for the Rebels, was offered a chance to follow Kiffin to LSU but chose to remain at Ole Miss.

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Both programs entered the 2026 season with strong starts. Ole Miss opened with consecutive victories over Louisville and Charlotte, while LSU began with dominant wins against Clemson and Louisiana Tech. The Rebels’ early success has been propelled by Lacy’s rushing production, and the Tigers’ early dominance reflects Kiffin’s continued momentum in Baton Rouge.

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• Lacy led Ole Miss in rushing during the first two games, amassing 148 yards and three touchdowns.

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• Ole Miss’s record stands at 2-0, with wins over Louisville and Charlotte.

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• LSU also holds a 2-0 record, highlighted by decisive victories over Clemson and Louisiana Tech.

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When asked about his current relationship with former head coach Lane Kiffin, Lacy emphasized his focus on the present season rather than past affiliations. He indicated that any personal connection with Kiffin is minimal and that his priority remains the team’s performance.

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• “Really don't have a relationship with him,” — Kewan Lacy

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The upcoming contest will test whether the Rebels can maintain their early-season form against a Kiffin-led LSU squad, while Lacy’s on-field contributions remain a focal point for Ole Miss’s offensive strategy.

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