Why is Kam Franklin helmet a guardian cap for Ole Miss vs Miami in Fiesta Bowl?

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GLENDALE, AZ — Ole Miss football defensive lineman Kam Franklin is sporting a different look in the Fiesta Bowl.

The No. 6 Rebels (13-1) are facing the No. 10 Hurricanes (12-2) in the semifinals of the College Football Playoff (6:30 p.m., ESPN) on Jan. 8. The game is in the second quarter at State Farm Stadium.

Franklin is wearing a guardian cap on his helmet. It's a soft, padded shell that has gained popularity in the NFL. It is intended to absorb force and protect from head injuries.

It's the first time for Franklin to wear one this season. He went from questionable to probable on the injury report for the Fiesta Bowl.

Franklin has 62 tackles for the Rebels and five sacks. He is a 6-foot-5, 290-pound sophomore from Lake Cormorant. The 2025 season has been his most impactful.

Sam Hutchens covers Ole Miss for the Clarion Ledger. Email him at Shutchens@gannett.com or reach him on X at @Sam_Hutchens_

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Kam Franklin helmet explained for Ole Miss vs Miami in CFP Fiesta Bowl

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