Ole Miss Football: Shea Patterson needs to grow up fast
In the wake of an NCAA investigation into recruiting violations at the hands of former head coach Hugh Freeze, the Ole Miss Rebels are in desperate need of a leader.
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Enter sophomore quarterback, Shea Patterson.
After starting the final three games of the 2016 season in relief of an injured starting quarterback Chad Kelly, Patterson enters the 2017 season with loads of hype and fanfare. Despite rather unspectacular production (880 yards, 6 TDs, 3 INTs, 54.5 completion percentage), Patterson’s brief time as the signal-caller for the Rebels has drawn rave reviews. However, with at least a one-year bowl ban, more important than Patterson’s development as a quarterback, will be his development as a leader.
While Patterson has not indicated a desire to transfer, rumors and speculation have swirled since Freeze’s resignation. If he decides to stay, Patterson will be relied upon to lead his team and school through tumultuous times. While the NCAA has yet to officially punish the program, a self-inflicted postseason ban will keep them out of any bowl game this season, while a scholarship reduction will also test the depth of the team.
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The Rebels will be tested early in the season, matching up with Alabama and Auburn in their first two SEC matchups, and both coming on the road. Without an experienced head coach to navigate the team through a loaded schedule, almost all of the burden will fall upon Patterson’s shoulders. Thankfully, Patterson will not be alone. The Rebels return four starters on the offensive line, including former 5-star recruit Greg Little.
Despite losing star tight end Evan Engram, receivers Damore’ea Stringfellow, Quincy Adeboyejo and running back Akeem Judd, the cupboard is not exactly bare for the offense. Senior running back Jordan Wilkins, with 5 rushing touchdowns in two seasons as a reserve, returns after being academically ineligible in 2016. A.J. Brown and Van Jefferson (543 and 412 yards, respectively) return to bolster the receiving corps.
Even with the significant losses to graduation and the unexpected loss of Hugh Freeze, if Ole Miss can avoid any heavy penalties from the NCAA, Shea Patterson can lead this team through the fog. One day, they may even return to relevancy.