OXFORD, Miss. — The Ole Miss football program is navigating a significant internal distraction just days before its New Year’s Day appearance in the Sugar Bowl. Star wide receiver Tre Harris was arrested early Sunday morning on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and careless driving, according to records from the Lafayette County Detention Center.
The arrest occurred in Oxford following a traffic stop conducted by local law enforcement. Harris was booked into the county facility and subsequently released on bond. The timing of the incident presents a critical disciplinary decision for head coach Lane Kiffin as the No. 6 Rebels prepare to face No. 5 Georgia in New Orleans.
Harris, a cornerstone of the Ole Miss offense, has been a prolific target for quarterback Jaxson Dart throughout the 2025 season. Despite battling lower-body injuries earlier in the year, Harris recorded over 1,000 receiving yards and was instrumental in the Rebels’ late-season push to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals. His potential absence would leave a substantial void in a vertical passing game that relies heavily on his ability to win contested catches and stretch opposing secondaries.
In a brief statement addressed to the media on Monday, the Ole Miss Athletic Department acknowledged the situation. “We are aware of the matter involving Tre Harris and are in the process of gathering more information,” the statement read. “Disciplinary actions will be handled internally in accordance with athletic department policy.”
Head coach Lane Kiffin has not yet confirmed whether Harris will be suspended for the Sugar Bowl. Kiffin has historically evaluated disciplinary matters on a case-by-case basis, often balancing team rules with the legal process. During the team’s Monday practice session, Harris was not seen participating during the portions open to the media.
If Harris is unavailable for the contest against Georgia, the Rebels will likely lean more heavily on pass-catchers Cayden Lee and Jordan Watkins, along with tight end Caden Prieskorn. Georgia’s defense, ranked among the nation’s elite, would benefit significantly from the absence of a player who demands consistent double-coverage.
As of Tuesday morning, Harris’s status for the trip to New Orleans remains officially “to be determined.” The Rebels are scheduled to depart for the Sugar Bowl site on Wednesday, by which time a final decision regarding his participation is expected.
