Full Breakdown
Ole Miss Prepares for Historic College Football Playoff Appearance
12/9/2025, 7:59:36 AM
Coaching Changes and Preparations
Four current offensive assistants from Louisiana State University (LSU) are returning to Ole Miss to assist in the Rebels' preparation for their first-ever College Football Playoff (CFP) game. The coaches—tight ends coach Joe Cox, wide receivers coach George McDonald, assistant quarterbacks coach Dane Stevens, and slot wide receivers coach Sawyer Jordan—joined offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. in Oxford, Mississippi, on December 2, following Lane Kiffin's departure to LSU. This decision, made by Kiffin, aims to help new Ole Miss head coach Pete Golding and the team maximize their playoff opportunity against the Tulane Green Wave on December 20.
The Rebels, who finished the regular season with an 11-2 record, previously faced Tulane on September 20, winning decisively 45-10. In that matchup, quarterback Trinidad Chambliss threw for two touchdowns, and running back Kewan Lacy contributed two rushing touchdowns, leading to a strong first-half performance.
Official Statements & Responses
Pete Golding, who was appointed as Ole Miss's head coach after Kiffin's exit, expressed confidence in the coaching staff's ability to guide the players through the playoffs. He emphasized the importance of focusing on player execution and preparation, stating, “There’s a bunch of kids in that locker room right now that need to get the focus back on them because, at the end of the day, they’re going to determine whether we’re going to win this game or not.”
Golding also clarified that there was no indecision regarding Weis's commitment to coaching during the playoffs, noting that Weis had assured both Golding and athletic director Keith Carter of his dedication to the team. Kiffin confirmed that LSU was aware of Weis's role in the playoffs and supported his return to Ole Miss.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the positive outlook from the coaching staff, some questions remain regarding the future of the Ole Miss assistants who followed Kiffin to LSU. Golding acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding their long-term positions, stating, “I don’t know what will happen with all this.” This situation has raised concerns among fans and analysts about the stability of the coaching staff moving forward.
What's Next
The Rebels are set to host Tulane in the CFP on December 20, with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. This game marks a significant milestone in Ole Miss's football history, as it will be their first playoff appearance. The coaching staff is focused on preparing the team to compete at the highest level, aiming for a national championship in what is described as a unique situation in college football.
Verbatim Quotes
“But I can promise you one thing. I’m going to be there for the players to coach the playoffs, and we’re going to finish where we started.” — Pete Golding, Head Coach, Ole Miss
“It ain’t going to have nothing to do with what’s the head coach’s name. I can assure you that.” — Pete Golding, Head Coach, Ole Miss
