Paul Finebaum Reveals SEC Program At Risk Of Missing CFP With Week 7 Loss

Ole Miss entered the 2024 season with high expectations following its first 11-win season in program history in 2023. However, an upset home loss to the Kentucky Wildcats has made the path to the College Football Playoff more challenging for the Rebels.

The Rebels rebounded from the 20-17 loss with a commanding 27-3 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks. However, they face a tough challenge as Ole Miss travels to play the No. 13 LSU Tigers this weekend.

On the "Paul Finebaum Show," the SEC Network analyst believes this weekend's game will be crucial for Ole Miss' playoff chances. Finebaum thinks that a loss could dramatically diminish the Rebels' postseason aspirations.

"This weekend will certainly be a key factor for Ole Miss," Finebaum said. "If Ole Miss loses this game Saturday at Tiger Stadium, their chances of getting to the CFP are diminished dramatically."

According to ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI), the Rebels still have a 54.8% chance of making the College Football Playoff. This places them at No. 8 in the country and No. 4 in the SEC. However, they still have games against three ranked teams, including LSU.

The Rebels aim to keep their playoff hopes alive on Saturday when they take on the Tigers at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

Related: Paul Finebaum Reveals SEC Powerhouse That's On The College Football Playoff 'Cut Line'