Ole Miss is on the brink of achieving a significant milestone as they face Duke in the Gator Bowl. With a victory, the Rebels would secure their third 10-win season in four years, a feat not accomplished since the era of coach Johnny Vaught in the early 1960s. Lane Kiffin's team enters the game as a multi-score favorite, highlighting their strong performance throughout the season. The Rebels' defensive front, featuring star players like Walter Nolen and JJ Pegues, is expected to be a key factor in the game, having combined for 41 tackles for loss and 20.5 sacks this season. The team is near full strength, providing them with a significant advantage over Duke, which is dealing with key player absences due to the transfer portal.

The transfer portal has significantly influenced the Gator Bowl matchup, particularly for Duke. The Blue Devils are without their starting quarterback Maalik Murphy and running back Star Thomas, both of whom entered the transfer portal. This has left Duke in a challenging position, relying on less experienced players like Henry Belin IV to step up in crucial roles. "It's not the kids' fault. It's the system's fault," Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin remarked, highlighting the pressures the portal places on student-athletes. Kiffin has advocated for changes in the transfer portal window, suggesting that the current system disrupts team dynamics, particularly during the postseason. The absence of key players has widened the motivation gap between the two teams, with Ole Miss retaining most of its starters.

Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is set to play a pivotal role in the Gator Bowl. Despite announcing his intention to enter the NFL draft, Dart has committed to playing in the bowl game, demonstrating his dedication to the team. Dart's leadership and performance have been praised by coach Lane Kiffin, who described him as "an unbelievable leader, teammate, friend to these guys." On the other hand, Duke's passing defense is one of the best in the country, ranking No. 6 in defensive dropback success rate. However, with key offensive players missing, Duke's ability to score remains uncertain. Predictions heavily favor Ole Miss, with experts anticipating a comfortable victory. The Rebels' offensive and defensive strengths, combined with Duke's player shortages, suggest Ole Miss will likely secure their desired 10-win season.