The Austin CaldwellOle Miss football program is aware the Rebels are a topic in discussions about faking injuries.

Conversation has swirled this season regarding players feigning or exaggerating injuries and the advantage that creates. For defenses facing a high-powered, up-tempo offense, a well-timed cramp can help. Injury timeouts can slow down offenses at inopportune times and allow defenses to get reset.

They can also afford an offense the same benefit.

Ahead of a big game at LSU on Saturday (7:30 p.m. ET, ABC), Ole Miss addressed the topic in a Friday news release.

"Feigned injuries has become a notable topic in college football, and we realize our program has been part of that discussion," the release said. "We have been in communication with the National Coordinator for Football Officiating and provided relevant medical information for his review to answer questions about recent injuries. We have also updated the SEC office, and our head coach will communicate with our coaches and players to ensure we conduct ourselves properly and are compliant in this matter."

Ole Miss drew criticism online for triggering 11 injury stoppages against South Carolina in Week 6. Gamecocks coach Shane Beamer also seemed skeptical about the developments. The Rebels were also criticized for similar behavior when they hosted Kentucky.

Sam Hutchens covers Ole Miss for the Clarion Ledger. Email him at [email protected] or reach him on X at @Sam_Hutchens_