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2 minute drill: Wallace can show improved decision-making against Vandy
By Ethan Levine
Published:
Bo Wallace’s three first half interceptions against Boise State have been well-chronicled in the 10 days since that game in Atlanta.
The Rebels’ senior quarterback managed to make up for his early turnovers with more than 350 yards through the air and three fourth quarter touchdown passes in a 22-point win. Ole Miss fans hope Wallace can shake the turnover bug while maintaining the command of the offense he showed in the second half against the Broncos.
Today’s game against Vanderbilt will be a golden opportunity for Wallace to prove he’s not only the conference’s most experienced quarterback, but also one of its most talented. He completed 31-of-47 passes against the Commodores in last year’s 39-35 win, and although he did not throw for any touchdowns, he also did not commit any turnovers.
Wallace has enough playmakers around him to produce game-changing plays at any moment, but he cannot try and force those plays the way he did last week against the Broncos. His top priority must be to protect the football and make smart, safe decisions.
The Commodores committed seven turnovers against Temple in their season opener, routinely giving the Owls’ offense a short field. Judging from Ole Miss’ performance on defense last week, the Rebels should be given similar opportunities.
As long as Wallace doesn’t make any plays to cost his team this game, he’ll have plenty of opportunities to make the highlight reel plays fans adore.
A former newspaper reporter who has roamed the southeastern United States for years covering football and eating way too many barbecue ribs, if there is such a thing.
