Reece McIntyre started at center for the Ole Miss Rebels on Saturday as they dominated the FCS Furman Paladins in Oxford. Versatility is key for McIntyre, who believes that being able to play multiple positions is an essential part of being an offensive lineman.
Throughout his career, McIntyre has played various spots along the offensive line. However, due to injuries leading up to Week 1, he was called back to center. For McIntyre, this is just part of his job as a veteran on the team.
“I’m just a veteran in the room, filling in where I can,” McIntyre said on Tuesday. “I’ve played all positions over the years. I just try to help out where I’m needed, and right now, that’s at center.”
The depth of the Ole Miss offensive line was a highlight during the offseason, and it could be tested early on. Another injury was reported on Tuesday, this time involving lineman Jeremy James, but McIntyre is confident that the team has enough depth to handle these challenges.
“I think we’ve got 12 guys who could rotate and play every game for us this year,” McIntyre added. “I honestly feel like there’s no drop-off in talent from our first to second unit.”
The Rebels have leaned heavily on the transfer portal over the past two seasons to bolster their roster, with the offensive line being a focus for head coach Lane Kiffin and his staff this year. Despite the influx of new players, McIntyre has remained in Oxford because he believes in the team’s potential for 2024 and feels at home.
“I came here out of high school, choosing Ole Miss over places like Florida and Arkansas,” McIntyre shared. “I visited here, and I loved it. The people make you feel like family.
“We’ve got something special brewing this year, and a chance to do something big. Why wouldn’t you want to be a part of that?”
While the Rebels managed the FCS competition with ease, the road ahead will be more challenging. Next up, Ole Miss hosts the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders on Saturday at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, with kickoff set for 3:15 p.m. CT on the SEC Network.
