History is being made in Oxford, Mississippi, as Ole Miss football finally punches its ticket to the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the very first time. But here's where it gets controversial: Can the Rebels prove their September blowout of Tulane was no fluke, or will the Green Wave rise to the challenge in this high-stakes rematch? And this is the part most people miss: This isn't just a game; it's a chance for Ole Miss to solidify its place among college football's elite.
The Rebels (11-1), fresh off securing the No. 6 seed in the CFP rankings announced on December 7, will host the No. 11 Tulane Green Wave (11-2) on December 20 at 2:30 p.m. CT at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The game, broadcast on TNT, marks the first CFP matchup ever held in Mississippi, adding to the historic significance of the event.
Tulane, the fourth-highest ranked conference champion, earned its CFP berth through a strong season. The winner of this first-round clash will advance to face the formidable No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs in the Sugar Bowl on January 1 in New Orleans.
This won't be the first time these teams have met this season. Back on September 20, Ole Miss dominated Tulane in a 45-10 victory at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. However, don't expect a repeat performance. Tulane quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who struggled in the first meeting (5-for-17 passing, 56 yards), will be looking for redemption. Ole Miss' defense, which held Tulane scoreless until the fourth quarter in their previous matchup, will need to bring the same intensity to secure another win.
Here's the burning question: Can Tulane flip the script and avenge their earlier loss, or will Ole Miss' defense prove too much to handle once again?
Tickets for this historic game are already in high demand, with prices starting at $324 on StubHub. Lower bowl seats are going for $364 to $582, reflecting the excitement surrounding this CFP debut.
This Ole Miss vs. Tulane matchup is just one part of a thrilling CFP bracket. The first round kicks off on December 19 with Alabama vs. Oklahoma, followed by Miami vs. Texas A&M and James Madison vs. Oregon on December 20. The quarterfinals, semifinals, and championship game will unfold over the following weeks, culminating in the national championship on January 19.
For Ole Miss, this CFP appearance is a milestone, marking their first-ever participation in the tournament. It's a testament to the team's hard work and a chance to write a new chapter in their football legacy.
What do you think? Can Ole Miss make a deep run in the CFP, or will Tulane pull off the upset? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!
