Mississippi's veterans ready to win now - WAFB 9 News Baton Rouge, Louisiana News, Weather, Sports

DAVID BRANDT
AP Sports Writer

OXFORD, Miss. (AP) - Mississippi won just two games last season, so it would appear obvious that the Rebels are in rebuilding mode.

But the team's veterans say they're not allowing themselves to think that way.

Junior linebacker Mike Marry says "we're playing for now" and that first-year coach Hugh Freeze is not just laying the foundation for future wins, but preparing the Rebels for immediate success.

Freeze says players are realistic about the challenges ahead, but have responded well during offseason workouts. Ole Miss begins preseason practice on Saturday.

The Rebels will have several position battles in camp, including at quarterback between returner Barry Brunetti and junior college transfer Bo Wallace. Former quarterback Randall Mackey has been moved to running back as the Rebels try to build more depth in the backfield.

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