Rebels ready for first preseason practice under new coach

OXFORD, Miss. (AP) Mississippi is preparing for its first preseason practice under new coach Ed Orgeron.<br> <br> The Rebels are scheduled to report Thursday and will hold their first fall workouts under the former Southern California assistant on Saturday.<br> <br> ``There&#39;s a lot of excitement around here,&#39;&#39; Orgeron said. ``We need to remain focused and have a great camp.&#39;&#39;<br> <br> Players will spend Thursday and Friday undergoing physical examinations and attending team meetings on compliance and academics before they begin practice.<br> <br> Orgeron, a 20-year assistant and Louisiana native, is taking over for David Cutcliffe, who was fired after refusing to make changes to his staff in the wake of a 4-7 finish in 2004.<br> <br> The Rebels begin the season Sept. 5 at Memphis.<br> <br> (Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)