Jared Ivey reveals Ole Miss' mindset towards lofty 2024 expectations

Expectations have never been higher for Ole Miss in the Lane Kiffin era. With the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams this season, the Rebels are a popular selection to make the field. Plenty of factors play into that, with the incredible defensive line being one of them.

Jared Ivey is a returner up front, deciding to come back for another season in Oxford instead of leaving for the NFL Draft. Ole Miss has never truly been in this situation, having preseason national attention when it comes to competing for the CFP. And while Ivey admits he and his teammates discuss the matter, their mindset has changed throughout the process.

“There are times when it comes up,” Ivey said during Wednesday’s episode of Andy Staples On3. “But I feel like for us, the wh/’y has accepted that and that’s, kind of, our way of thinking. It’s not something I feel like you have to talk about a lot. It’s something that we just do.”

Kiffin has done a great job building the roster and is known as the Portal King. Ole Miss has built through the NCAA transfer portal over multiple seasons. Ivey is a great example, beginning his career at Georgia Tech but then opting to play multiple seasons at Ole Miss.

Playing in every game last season, Ivey recorded 46 tackles, 11.5 tackles for a loss, and 5.5 sacks. All of those are career highs after making the switch over from the ACC. An impressive season he will be looking to improve upon in 2024.

Walter Nolen may be the biggest name of the bunch Ole Miss hauled in from the past cycle, being a defensive lineman with experience in the SEC. Defensive coordinator Pete Golding is going to have plenty of options at his disposal, something Ole Miss will need through all 12 games.

Everyone knows the offensive talent at Kiffin’s disposal. Jaxson Dart, another former portal player, is coming back and may have the best weapons in the SEC. The roster and coaching staff are set up to be successful, at least on paper.

Now, having the right mindset for the next few months is crucial. Ivey understands that expectations are there but it’s the new normal at Ole Miss. Finishing 10-2 last season was an accomplishment but now, earning a College Football Playoff bid is burned into their minds.