The Ole Miss Rebels have wrapped up their regular season in the NCAAF with a thrilling victory over Mississippi State in the highly anticipated Egg Bowl. This win not only secures bragging rights but also leaves fans eager to see what lies ahead for the program. With a season record of nine wins and three losses, under the guidance of head coach Lane Kiffin, the Rebels have established themselves as a formidable force in college football.
The Rebels faced a tough challenge earlier in the season with a Week 13 loss to the Florida Gators, which complicated their chances for a direct playoff berth. However, following their recent triumph, star quarterback Jaxson Dart made a bold statement about his team’s playoff aspirations. “We’re the team that showed that we can beat anybody,” Dart asserted confidently. He emphasized the Rebels’ competitive spirit, stating, “And my pitch is, you know, you look at — you look at the conferences, you look at the strength of schedule. Obviously, we slipped up in some games that we definitely were not supposed to do, and that’s going to bite at us. But, you know, I definitely think, without a doubt, we’re one of the best teams in the country.”
Dart didn’t hold back, suggesting that even renowned coaches should take notice of the Rebels’ potential. “I think you can go around and ask any coach that same question. You can go ask Kirby Smart what he thinks. Yeah, I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I know that if we get a shot, we’re gonna make a run at it, for sure.”
Lane Kiffin’s Praise for Jaxson Dart
The bond between Kiffin and Dart has been pivotal for the Rebels this season. Kiffin expressed his admiration for Dart, highlighting his character and dedication. “The quarterback, you know, he’s just — he’s awesome. There’s a way you want your son to be, that’s what you want to have,” Kiffin remarked during his postgame press conference. “Complete team player. Doesn’t care about stats, anything. He could care less that, you know, he threw 143 yards today. We saw the way he ran. His emotion at the end of the game. Just tried to help him keep it together. Because he cares, man. He cares about this team, he cares about this university.”
Kiffin also noted Dart’s remarkable achievements, including becoming the all-time leader in passing yards at Ole Miss, surpassing the legendary Eli Manning. “I’m sure there’s appreciation, but I hope everybody has appreciation for what they watch with this guy, and how he plays the game,” Kiffin stated. He further acknowledged Dart’s determination, mentioning that he played through a bad ankle injury, showcasing a level of passion that is rare in college football today.
A Historic Milestone
Dart’s performance against Mississippi State was not just a win for the team; it marked a significant milestone in his career. By passing Eli Manning’s record for the most passing yards, Dart solidified his place in Ole Miss history. Manning, who played for the Rebels from 2000 to 2003, held the previous record with 10,119 yards. During a timeout in the game, the broadcast featured a special message from Manning himself, acknowledging Dart’s achievement and the legacy of the program.
The Rebels’ victory over Mississippi State was a testament to their resilience and teamwork. The players have shown a strong connection both on and off the field, which has been instrumental in their success this season. Kiffin’s leadership combined with Dart’s skills has created a potent mix that has the potential to take Ole Miss far in the postseason.
As the Rebels look ahead, the excitement is palpable. Fans are eager to see if Dart and his teammates will get the opportunity to showcase their talents on a bigger stage. The playoffs are just around the corner, and with the right momentum, Ole Miss could make a significant impact.
Looking Forward
With the regular season behind them, the Rebels are now in a waiting game, hoping for a favorable outcome regarding their playoff chances. The team has demonstrated that they can compete with the best, and Dart’s confidence in their abilities is infectious. “We’re ready,” Dart declared, echoing the sentiments of his teammates and the coaching staff.
As fans await the playoff selections, the Rebels have already made a statement with their performance this season. They have proven that they can rise to the occasion, and with Dart at the helm, there’s a sense of optimism surrounding the program. The upcoming weeks will be crucial, and Ole Miss is poised to make a run if given the chance.
In the world of college football, anything can happen, and the Rebels are ready to seize the moment. With their eyes set on the playoffs, the Ole Miss Rebels are determined to show that they belong among the elite teams in the nation. Will they get their shot? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this team is ready to make waves.
