Greg Sankey, commissioner of the SEC, reveals that teams could face forfeits if they cannot play because of COVID issues. (1:02).Coach Lane Kiffin is encouraged by the dedication that Ole Miss's players and coaches have shown to the vaccination front as Ole Miss prepares for preseason football practice.Kiffin stated that there is a 100% vaccine rate among the players, coaches, staff, and everyone else who will be practicing on Sunday. Everyone involved in the Ole Miss Athletic Program in Mississippi has given a tremendous push to ensure that everyone receives at least one vaccine. Mississippi was last week ranked fourth in the country in terms of the number of people who received at least one dose of vaccinations (41.6%) according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.Kiffin specifically urged his assistant coaches to remind their players and to get vaccinated.Kiffin stated that it was "pretty amazing" and a great motivator for the state and fans.Kiffin stated that the Rebels have gained ground over the past months, despite being far from 100% at the start of the season. He stated that the willingness of the players to get vaccinated, and to push each other to do it, shows their dedication to making this an unforgettable season.Kiffin stated that "Nobody wants be in a situation to forfeit games."Greg Sankey, the commissioner of the SEC, stated last month that six of 14 league football teams had achieved 80% vaccination. Sankey stated that the 2021 games will not be rescheduled if a team cannot compete due to positive testing.Sankey stated, "The forfeit word is raised at this point."Sankey stated that all SEC teams who reach the required threshold of 85% will not be subject to the COVID-19 protocol or regular testing. However, teams below 85% will be tested.Kirby Smart, Georgia, said his team has reached the 85% mark last month. Nick Saban, Alabama said that "pretty close" to 90% of Crimson Tide players had been vaccinated. Last month's reports also indicated that Arkansas and LSU had at least 80% vaccinations.Ole Miss is ranked No. 24 in ESPN's preseason Top 25 opens its season against Louisville, Georgia on Sept. 6.
