Ole Miss Climbs to No. 6 in CFP Rankings Amid Coaching Shakeup

The University of Mississippi football team has risen in the College Football Playoff standings. The Rebels moved up one spot to No. 6 in the final regular-season rankings. This comes just days after head coach Lane Kiffin left the program for LSU.

The committee’s decision was announced Tuesday on ESPN. It solidifies Ole Miss’s position to host a first-round playoff game. This move occurred despite significant off-field turmoil surrounding the coaching staff.

Committee Focuses On-Field Results Over Off-Field Drama

The selection committee prioritized the Rebels’ on-field performance. According to Sports Illustrated, the team’s 38-19 rivalry win over Mississippi State was the key factor. This victory came just before Kiffin’s departure became official.

The committee chair had previously addressed a potential coaching change. He noted the group would not have data to judge a Kiffin-less Ole Miss squad in the SEC title game. That scenario is now moot, as Alabama’s win secured the SEC West.

Defensive coordinator Pete Golding has been named the full-time head coach. He will lead the team into the postseason. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. will remain to call plays for the playoff run.

Playoff Path and Oxford Hosting Scenario Now Clear

The No. 6 ranking sets a clear postseason path for Ole Miss. The Rebels are now in line to host a first-round game at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. They will face the fourth-highest ranked conference champion.

Their likely opponent depends on other championship results. If Virginia wins the ACC, the Cavaliers would likely travel to Oxford. An upset by Duke could send the American Athletic Conference champion instead.

The final CFP selection show is scheduled for Sunday, December 7th. The broadcast will begin at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN. The first-round playoff matchups will be finalized at that time.

This significant climb in the final CFP rankings secures a major advantage for Ole Miss. The program will host a playoff game despite a tumultuous week, a testament to its strong regular-season record.

Info at your fingertips

Why did Ole Miss move up in the CFP rankings?

The committee rewarded the team for its convincing win over Mississippi State. They focused on the on-field result, not the subsequent coaching change.

Who will coach Ole Miss in the playoff?

Newly promoted head coach Pete Golding will lead the team. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. will remain in his role to call plays.

Who might Ole Miss play in the first round?

The Rebels will host the fourth-highest ranked conference champion. This will likely be the ACC champion or the American Athletic Conference winner.

When are the CFP playoff matchups announced?

The full 12-team field will be revealed on Sunday, December 7. The selection show airs at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN.

Could Ole Miss have made the SEC championship?

No. Alabama’s win over Auburn locked the Crimson Tide into the SEC title game. Ole Miss needed an Alabama loss to advance.