Star running back's shoulder injury raises concerns ahead of key SEC clash
Category: Sports
On September 26, 2026, Kewan Lacy, the star running back for No. 4 Ole Miss, is not expected to play against No. 21 Florida, as confirmed by coach Pete Golding. Lacy was downgraded to doubtful on the SEC injury report dated September 25 after suffering a left shoulder injury during the Rebels' recent victory over LSU.
This development is particularly concerning as Ole Miss (3-0, 1-0 SEC) prepares to face Florida (3-0, 1-0) at 2:30 p.m. on ABC. Lacy's absence would be felt deeply, as he is recognized as one of the top running backs in college football and a key player for the Rebels.
Lacy exited the game against LSU in the second half due to the shoulder injury and did not return. He underwent X-rays after the game, followed by an MRI on the following Sunday. "We still have another chapel session, so I'm not giving up yet," Golding said, indicating that there may still be a slim chance for Lacy to play.
In Lacy's absence, JT Lindsey, a former LSU transfer, and Makhi Frazier, who transferred from Michigan State, are expected to share the rushing duties. Lindsey has recorded 48 yards on 12 attempts this season, averaging four yards per carry, whereas Frazier has gained 38 yards on nine carries, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. Neither player has scored a touchdown this season, but they will be thrust into a more prominent role if Lacy cannot go.
In the 2026 season, Lacy has made 39 carries for 191 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. His performance has been instrumental for Ole Miss, especially considering he set single-season program records in 2025 with 306 rushing attempts, 1,567 yards, and 24 touchdowns. Lacy's ability to contribute in pass protection has also been a valuable asset for Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss.
Adding to the intrigue of the matchup, Florida's wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr. is a game-time decision due to a sprained left ankle. Singleton, who has yet to make his debut for the Gators this season, is hopeful to play, according to coach Jon Sumrall. He spent one season at Auburn after two years at Georgia Tech, where he caught 58 passes for 534 yards and three touchdowns in 2025.
The stakes are high for both teams as they enter this SEC showdown. Ole Miss is aiming to maintain its undefeated status, having already secured a victory against LSU. The Rebels' strong start to the season has been bolstered by Lacy's impressive performance, making his potential absence a major concern for the coaching staff and fans alike.
Florida, on the other hand, is also undefeated and looking to solidify its position in the SEC. The Gators have shown promise this season, and the addition of Singleton to the lineup could provide a much-needed boost to their offensive capabilities. With both teams boasting strong records, the outcome of this game could have implications for their standings in the conference.
Historically, matchups between Ole Miss and Florida have been competitive, with both teams often vying for top positions in the SEC. The rivalry adds another layer of excitement to this game, as both sides aim to assert their dominance early in the season.
The game is set to kick off at 2:30 p.m. on September 26, 2026, and attention will turn to Lacy's status leading up to the matchup. If he cannot play, Lindsey and Frazier will need to step up significantly to fill the void left by the star running back. Their ability to perform under pressure will be tested against a formidable Florida defense.
Should Lacy be unable to participate, it will affect the offensive strategy of Ole Miss and the morale of the team. Golding's comments about Lacy's potential return indicate that the coaching staff is holding onto hope, but they must prepare for the possibility of competing without their leading rusher.
As for Florida, the inclusion of Singleton could provide a strategic advantage, allowing the Gators to stretch the field and create mismatches against the Ole Miss defense. The outcome of this game could shape the trajectories of both teams as they navigate the challenges of the SEC season.
With kickoff approaching, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the absence or presence of Lacy will influence the game. The anticipation surrounding this matchup reflects the importance of both teams' performances as they seek to establish themselves in the SEC hierarchy.