Rebels Blast Jackson State to Complete Perfect Midweek

Tristan Bissetta and Judd Utermark each hit two home runs for unbeaten Ole Miss

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

The No. 16 Ole Miss Rebels rolled to an 18-3 rout of Jackson State on Wednesday night at Swayze Field. Tristan Bissetta became the first Ole Miss player since 2017 to hit two home runs in the same inning, while Judd Utermark finished with six RBIs, including a grand slam. The Rebels used six pinch hitters to showcase their depth, and Terry Hayes Jr. made his Ole Miss debut after transferring from Bellevue College.

Why it matters

The win keeps Ole Miss undefeated at 5-0 on the season, as they prepare to host Missouri State this weekend. The Rebels have showcased a powerful offense in the early going, with multiple players contributing to the lopsided victory over Jackson State.

The details

Ole Miss responded to an early 2-0 deficit with three runs in the first inning, then blew the game open with a seven-run third inning highlighted by Bissetta's two home runs. Utermark's grand slam in the sixth inning cemented the Rebels' laugher of a win. On the mound, Hayes made his Ole Miss debut, allowing two runs on two hits in three innings, while Owen Hancock earned the win in relief.

  • On Wednesday night, February 19, 2026, Ole Miss defeated Jackson State 18-3 at Swayze Field.
  • Ole Miss will host Missouri State this Friday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Tristan Bissetta

An Ole Miss player who hit two home runs in the same inning, becoming the first Rebel to accomplish that feat since 2017.

Judd Utermark

An Ole Miss player who finished the game with six RBIs, including a grand slam in the sixth inning.

Terry Hayes Jr.

A transfer from Bellevue College who made his Ole Miss debut, pitching three innings and allowing two runs on two hits while striking out four.

Mike Bianco

The head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels, who praised the team's offensive performance and depth.

Owen Hancock

The Ole Miss relief pitcher who earned the win, tossing two innings and allowing one run with three strikeouts.

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What they’re saying

“He's played terrific. Arguably better than anybody in the first five games.”

— Mike Bianco, Head Coach

“Everybody's going to look at the box score and the home runs, but the most impressive thing for me was that all those new guys only walked one hitter.”

— Mike Bianco, Head Coach

“We've got a lot of good hitters, and it's good to see the offense get going.”

— Tristan Bissetta

What’s next

The Rebels will host Missouri State this weekend, with a 4 p.m. first pitch on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Ole Miss has showcased a powerful and balanced offense in the early part of the season, with multiple players contributing to the lopsided victory over Jackson State. The Rebels' depth and ability to get production from new players is an encouraging sign as they prepare to host Missouri State this weekend.