Aug. 28, 2012

OXFORD, Miss. - First-year Head Coach Hugh Freeze and the Ole Miss football team began game week preparations Tuesday afternoon on the football practice fields adjacent to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.

Coach Freeze praised the execution of the game plan by the defense.

"Defensively we were excellent," Freeze said. "I thought their energy was great and their attention to detail was super. They were very coachable. Offensively we didn't have any energy. We didn't have a bounce in our step like its game week. That was a little disappointing, but I'm sure they'll bounce back tomorrow."

Several key members of the Rebel secondary were back in action today after suffering injuries during fall camp.

"Charles Sawyer looked really good today," Freeze said. "Wesley Pendleton and Cliff Coleman were at about 80 percent. It looked like Charles was the farthest along when they were moving around."

Freeze also commented on the status of junior running back Jeff Scott.

"He tried to go today," Freeze said. "I'm proud of him for that. He's not himself. We'll just see how the week goes on. If we had to play tomorrow, I don't know that he would be a factor."

With the possibility that Scott may not be available Saturday, Freeze said various Rebels will have to step up in the return game.

"Senquez Golson, Trae Elston, Philander Moore and Korvic Neat will be guys that will be involved in the return game," Freeze said. "Jaylen Walton will also be involved on kickoffs."

Freeze said he will likely decide after Wednesday's practice which quarterback will take the first snaps in Saturday's game.

The Rebels kick off the 2012 season Sept. 1 in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium against Central Arkansas at 6 p.m. For Ole Miss gameday information or to buy season tickets, visit the Rebels' gameday site, OleMissFB.com, or call 888-REB-TKTS (732-8587).