As the College Football Playoff approaches, the highly anticipated matchup between Tulane University and the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) is set for Saturday afternoon. This contest features the No. 6 seed Tulane facing the No. 11 seed Ole Miss, with a significant spread favoring the Rebels. Both teams boast notable draft-eligible prospects who could impact their NFL futures.
Key Players from Ole Miss
One standout is Zxavian Harris, a formidable interior defensive lineman recognized for his ability to halt the run and disrupt the offensive line. This season, Harris has answered the call from NFL scouts by achieving a career-high of three sacks, showcasing his improved pass-rushing skills. His performance will be crucial as Tulane’s offensive line struggles with interior protection.
Another significant player is Suntarine Perkins, who registered 10.5 sacks last season. Although undersized for the EDGE position at the professional level, he remains an explosive playmaker capable of making impactful plays around the line of scrimmage. Perkins has committed to return to Ole Miss for the 2026 season, but his potential makes him a player to watch.
The Rebels’ offense features tight end Dae’Quan Wright, who is enjoying a career-best season. After transferring from Virginia Tech, Wright has made a significant impact with 30 receptions for 489 yards and four touchdowns this season. His ability to find the end zone is evident, as he has scored a total of eight touchdowns since last season, averaging an impressive 16.3 yards per catch.
Notable Tulane Players
For Tulane, quarterback Jake Retzlaff stands out after transferring from BYU. He has led the Green Wave to their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance, throwing for 14 touchdowns and rushing for 16 more. His dual-threat capabilities have earned him a developmental grade from scouts, and he is expected to participate in an NFL training camp.
Another key player for Tulane is Shadre Hurst, regarded as their top draft-eligible prospect. Hurst has excelled at left guard, not allowing a sack throughout the 2025 season. His versatility, demonstrated by his ability to fill in at left tackle, has attracted the attention of NFL scouts, with grades placing him in the top 150 prospects.
Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has also impressed this season, throwing for 18 touchdowns against only three interceptions, while adding six rushing touchdowns to his tally. Despite being undersized by NFL standards, Chambliss has exhibited strong arm talent, though he has faced challenges with post-snap recognition.
Wide receiver Harrison Wallace III has emerged as Chambliss’ primary target, recording 46 receptions for 719 yards and three touchdowns. His athleticism allows him to excel in 50-50 ball situations, making him a prospect of interest for scouts.
Lastly, Mo Westmoreland has seen a slight decline in his sack production since transferring to Tulane, with only 2.5 sacks this season compared to previous years at UTEP, where he recorded 7.5 sacks in both 2023 and 2024. Although he may not be drafted, he remains a well-known name among scouts.
As these teams prepare to clash in the College Football Playoff, the performances of these key players could significantly influence their NFL futures and the outcome of the game. The stage is set for an exciting showdown that promises to deliver thrilling moments for fans and scouts alike.
