Ole Miss Rebels

In the heart of Dixie, where Spanish moss drapes ancient oaks and the sweet melody of the blues hangs heavy in the air, lies a football saga as vibrant and resilient as the Mississippi itself. This is the story of the Ole Miss Rebels, a century-plus odyssey of gridiron glory, passionate fans, and an unwavering pursuit of national dominance.

The tale begins in 1893, not with a bang, but with a scuffle. A group of spirited students, yearning for competition beyond the classroom, cobbled together the state's first football team. They were known as the "Mississippi Flood," a name both symbolic and prophetic, foreshadowing the wave of talent and resilience that would define the program for generations.

Those early years were a wild ride. Victories were hard-fought, defeats often gut-wrenching, and games played on makeshift fields amidst cheering crowds and howling dogs. But even in this rawness, the Rebel spirit simmered.

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Ole Miss football, steeped in history and Southern charm, boasts not just wins and championships, but a treasure trove of intriguing facts that add another layer to the Rebels' legacy. Here are a few that might raise an eyebrow:

From Coach to Quarterback? Absolutely! Jacob Bennett, head coach from 1928-1941, also suited up as the team's starting quarterback in 1923. Talk about multi-tasking!

Bowled Over? Believe it or not, Ole Miss has a better win percentage in bowl games (68.6%) than regular season games (60.5%). Maybe they just thrive under pressure!

First and Fastest? Ole Miss football claims the fastest play ever executed in FBS history, a lightning-quick 1.1-second touchdown reception in 2017. Talk about instant gratification!

Hall of Fame Haven: Ten former players and coaches grace the College Football Hall of Fame, including Frank "Bruiser" Kinard, a member of both the College and Pro Football Halls! Double the honor!

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The story of the Ole Miss Rebels logo isn't just about color palettes and mascots; it's a window into the evolving identity and social narratives of the University of Mississippi itself. From the controversial Colonel Reb to the unexpected Landshark, the journey reflects changing landscapes of tradition, race, and modern sensibilities.

The Colonel, a cartoon caricature of an antebellum gentleman with a handlebar mustache and Confederate sash, emerged in 1936. Initially meant to embody Southern hospitality and chivalry, the image drew immediate criticism for its romanticized depiction of a period steeped in slavery and racial inequality.

Despite protests, the Colonel remained the official mascot for over 70 years. Fans embraced him as a symbol of school spirit, oblivious or dismissive of the inherent racial implications. Yet, the tide of societal change was slowly turning. In 1997, the NCAA banned Confederate symbols at athletic events, forcing Ole Miss to modify the Colonel's uniform and remove the Confederate flag.

In 2017, a student referendum finally brought about the Colonel's demise. By a clear majority, students voted for the Landshark, a playful cartoon shark emerging from a football helmet, inspired by a comedic skit on Saturday Night Live. The change, symbolic of Ole Miss's desire to move beyond a divisive past, sparked mixed reactions. Traditionalists mourned the Colonel, while others saw the Landshark as a fresh start, free from historical baggage.

The Landshark hasn't yet achieved the cultural legacy of the Colonel, but it represents a move towards inclusivity and a modern identity. It is a mascot for all Ole Miss students, regardless of race or background, a playful symbol that emphasizes athletic prowess and school spirit.

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Ole Miss football, with its storied history and passionate fanbase, is a program woven from both glory and heartache. In a tapestry of triumphs and near misses, five seasons stand out as radiant threads, forever etched in Rebel lore.

1. 1960-62: The Golden Trinity: This three-year stretch under John Vaught cemented Ole Miss as national powers. They captured two national titles ('60, '62) and finished ranked within the top five each year. Archie Manning's father, Jack, led the charge as quarterback, showcasing the offensive prowess that would become a Rebel trademark. This era established Ole Miss as a force to be reckoned with, planting the seeds for future success.

2. 1961: "The Longest Yard": While they finished second nationally, 1961 showcased the Rebels' indomitable spirit. Trailing arch-rival LSU by 17 points in the fourth quarter, the "Comeback in Tiger Stadium" saw Archie Morales throw a game-winning touchdown with 51 seconds left. This legendary victory encapsulated the never-say-die attitude that continues to define Ole Miss football.

3. 1995-96: Eli Manning Mania: Eli "Manningface" Manning arrived in Oxford under Tommy Tuberville, ushering in a new era of Rebel hope. With Manning's gunslinging talent and Deuce McAllister's potent rushing, the Rebels reached the Cotton Bowl twice in two years. Though national titles eluded them, these seasons laid the foundation for future Manning-led triumphs.

4. 2008-09: Houston Nutt's Renaissance: After a period of stagnation, Houston Nutt injected a renewed energy into the program. With Jevon Langford's electrifying runs and Dexter McCluster's versatility, the Rebels roared back onto the national scene. The "2008 Sugar Bowl Shuffle" victory over Utah cemented Nutt's legacy and rekindled fan optimism.

5. 2014-15: Bo Nix Magic: Enter the dual-threat phenomenon, Bo Nix. Leading a high-octane offense under Hugh Freeze, Nix's talent was undeniable. The "Egg Bowl Hail Mary" against rival Mississippi State in 2015, a last-second touchdown pass, stands as one of the most iconic plays in Ole Miss history. This era, though tinged with controversy, showcased the Rebels' offensive firepower and renewed their relevance in the SEC landscape.

These five seasons represent the vibrant tapestry of Ole Miss football. From national dominance to underdog triumphs, from individual brilliance to collective grit, they encapsulate the essence of Rebel spirit.

Ole Miss football has a rich history dating back to 1893, and with that history comes a select group of players whose contributions stand out above the rest. As of today, December 28, 2023, four jersey numbers have been officially retired:

18 - Archie Manning (1968-1970): "The Golden Boy" revolutionized Ole Miss and the SEC with his passing prowess. He led the Rebels to two bowl appearances and holds numerous school records. His legacy as a leader and talent cemented his number's retirement in 1971.

38 - Chucky Mullins (1989-1990): This inspirational figure not only excelled on the field but also persevered through a life-changing injury. After a devastating paralysis in 1989, Mullins returned to school and became a motivational speaker, leaving a lasting impact on the community. His number was retired in 1992.

10 - Eli Manning (2000-2003): Archie's son followed in his footsteps, leading the Rebels to their first SEC Championship in 33 years and winning the Mackey Award as the nation's top quarterback. His success and legacy within the Manning family solidified his number's retirement in 2014.

74 - Ben Williams (1972-1975): In 2022, Ole Miss made history by retiring the number of Ben Williams, the first black player to ever play in a varsity game for the program. His courage and talent paved the way for future generations and earned him this prestigious honor.

It's important to note that other iconic players, like Charlie Conerly and Archie Moore, were honored posthumously and have their numbers permanently displayed in the stadium but are not technically retired.