Full Breakdown
Ole Miss Rebels Prepare for Historic College Football Playoff Debut Against Tulane
12/18/2025, 7:01:20 AM
Overview of the Matchup
The Ole Miss Rebels (11-1) are set to host the Tulane Green Wave (11-2) in their first-ever College Football Playoff (CFP) game on December 20, 2025, at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, Mississippi. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CT, and the game will be broadcast on TNT. This matchup marks a rematch of their earlier encounter this season, where Ole Miss secured a decisive 45-10 victory over Tulane on September 20.
Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics
Following the departure of head coach Lane Kiffin to LSU, defensive coordinator Pete Golding has been promoted to interim head coach for the playoff. Golding emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and preparing the team for the challenges ahead, stating, “This is the opportunity to compete for a championship based on what you’ve done up until this point and what you’ve earned.” The Rebels have retained continuity in their coaching staff, with offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. remaining in place for this critical game.
Tulane, meanwhile, is also navigating a coaching transition, as head coach Jon Sumrall has accepted a position at Florida but will continue to lead the team through the playoffs. This adds an element of uncertainty for both teams as they prepare for the high-stakes matchup.
Key Players and Performance Metrics
Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has emerged as a standout player, leading a potent offense that ranks third nationally in total offense (498.1 yards per game) and scoring (37.3 points per game). Chambliss has thrown for over 3,000 yards this season, with 18 touchdowns and only three interceptions. His performance will be crucial against a Tulane defense that has struggled against the pass, ranking 122nd nationally in pass defense.
For Tulane, quarterback Jake Retzlaff aims to bounce back from a poor performance in their previous meeting, where he completed only 5 of 17 passes for 56 yards. Retzlaff has shown potential throughout the season, contributing significantly on the ground with 16 rushing touchdowns.
Injury Reports and Game Conditions
As of December 17, Ole Miss reported a relatively healthy roster, with tight end Dae'Quan Wright listed as probable and defensive back Antonio Kite as questionable. Tulane's injury report includes several key players, with linebacker Dickson Agu and tight end LeRon Husbands ruled out. The weather forecast for game day indicates mostly sunny skies with a high of 66 degrees, creating favorable conditions for both teams.
Predictions and Betting Odds
Oddsmakers have installed Ole Miss as significant favorites, with a spread of 17.5 points. The ESPN SP+ computer model gives Ole Miss an 87% chance of winning, predicting a final score of approximately 39-21. Analysts note that while Ole Miss has the talent advantage, the coaching changes could impact team performance.
Conclusion: Significance of the Game
This playoff game represents a historic moment for Ole Miss, as they become the first team from Mississippi to compete in the College Football Playoff. The winner will advance to face No. 3 Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2026. As both teams prepare for this pivotal clash, the outcome could set the tone for their respective programs moving forward.
