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Ole Miss defensive coordinator praises potential of 2026 defense

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 1:02 AM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

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Summary

Ole Miss defensive coordinator Bryan Brown expressed confidence in the 2026 Rebels' defense, suggesting it could reach historic heights. After a challenging start in 2025 with nine new starters, the team improved to a 37th national ranking in points allowed per game. Key returners include junior defensive tackle Will Echoles and senior linebacker Suntarine Perkins. Despite losing leading pass rusher Princewill Umanmielen to LSU, the team aims for significant improvement. Brown highlighted depth in the defensive front and secondary as strengths that may lead the 2026 unit to outshine the 2024 squad known for its dominant performance.

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Status Watch

•Bryan Brown believes 2026 defense can match 2024 standards.
•Rebels finished 2025 ranked 37th in points allowed.
•Key returners include Will Echoles and Suntarine Perkins.
•Team lost leading pass rusher to LSU, focusing on rebuilding.
•Defense depth may enhance performance this season.

Latest Updates

1:02 AMYahoo Sports — Ole Miss' 2024 defense set a new standard. The 2026 version has 'a chance to be' better

What they're saying

"
OXFORD – It’s certainly high praise, particularly given he was on staff at the time and saw just what havoc Ole Miss’ 2024 defense wreaked on opposing offenses. But Ole Miss defensive coordinator Bryan Brown believes the 2026 edition of the Rebels’ defense has a chance to be one for the ages. After a slow start to last season – nine new starters ensured there would be an adjustment period – ...
— Yahoo Sports

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