By By Joey Vaughn / special to The Star
Oct. 15, 2002
OXFORD When Ole Miss beat Alabama 27-24 last season, all the pressure of a 12-year losing streak to the Crimson Tide washed away.
This week, Rebel players don't have to answer questions about their inability to beat Bama, but the task in front of the No. 21 team in the nation is no less daunting. Ole Miss has only beaten Alabama in Tuscaloosa once, in 1988, and Rebel coach David Cutcliffe knows that this Tide team won't roll over just because NCAA sanctions prevent it from going to the postseason.
Cutcliffe preaches preparation at every turn, and he said that's the only way his team will be able to win against the No. 24 Tide Saturday in fron of a national television audience on CBS.
Road games
Saturday's game will be Ole Miss' first road SEC game of the year. The Rebs beat Vanderbilt and Florida at home this year, but play four of their next six games on the road.
Surprisingly, Ole Miss has played some of its better football on the road under Cutcliffe, compiling an 8-5 conference mark away from home in his tenure.
Injury update
The Rebels, who have been riddled with injuries for much of the season, had only one player go down against Arkansas State. Redshirt freshman offensive lineman Chris Spencer hurt his ankle and may miss some time, but senior running back Robert Williams, who hasn't played in weeks with an ankle sprain, returned to practice Monday.