Thursday, December 30, 2010

Bhupathi Inspiring Nation

Former Rebel NCAA Tennis Champion Mahesh Bhupathi is obviously a big name in in his home country of India. He became the first Indian to win a Grand Slam title in 1997 and has totaled 11 Grand Slam doubles titles over his career. Bhupathi's success has contributed to a rise in the popularity of the sport in his homeland, and a reunion with his former doubles mate Leander Paes expects to have an even greater impact. It is the subject of a CNN story today.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Records In Sight For Bolden

Quietly, Brandon Bolden has piled up some monster stats during his Ole Miss career, and now set for his senior season, he has a chance to conquer some impressive Rebel records in 2011. Here is how B.B. stacks up against some of the all-time marks in sight, all of which belong to, you guessed it, Deuce McAllister.

Career rushing yards: Bolden 2,132 (McAllister 3,060) -928
Career all-purpose yards: Bolden 3,062 (McAllister 4,889) -1,827
Career rushing TDs: Bolden 23 (McAllister 37) -14
Career TDs scored: Bolden 28 (McAllister 41) -13

Monday, December 27, 2010

Former Rebel Named HS Coach of Year

Many of you will remember former Rebel Chad Cook. The linebacker was a key member of a very successful class, which included Romaro Miller and Deuce McAllister and reached a bowl in each of its four seasons (1997 - 2000). Cook has continued his winning ways as a high school coach. As the head man at Shannon, he directed the Red Raiders to a 10-4 record this season and was named the Daily Journal's Coach of the Year. Read more about it in today's paper.

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Watch Nutt, Walls Tee It Up

As we reported on the main site, Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt and former Rebel All-American Wesley Walls hit the links for charity back in April. The Ole Miss pair earned $10,000 in scholarship donations at the Chick-fil-A Bowl Challenge charity golf tournament at Reynolds Plantation resort outside of Atlanta. Catch highlights of the fourth annual event, which featured coaches and celebrity alumni from other ACC and SEC schools, on Wednesday at 4 p.m. CT on ESPN2.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Rebels' NFL Total At 23

Looking at ESPN.com's NFL database, Ole Miss' list of former players currently playing in the league is up to 23, which ranks seventh in the SEC. Here is how the numbers shake out according to ESPN.com.

LSU - 45
Georgia - 39
Tennessee - 38
Florida - 34
Auburn - 28
Alabama - 26
Ole Miss - 23
South Carolina - 20
Arkansas - 15
Mississippi State - 14
Kentucky - 11
Vanderbilt - 11

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Geralds Returns To States

After a year in Canada, former Rebel Daverin Geralds is back in the states -- his homestate to boot. As reported in Wednesday's Gwinnett Daily Post, Geralds has signed to play with the Georgia Force for the 2011 Arena Football League season. The offensive lineman spent time in NFL training camps with both the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints before eventually signing and playing the 2010 season with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League.

Former Rebel Shining As Prep Coach

Off to an 8-3 start after last night's win over MVSU, the Ole Miss women's hoops team is winning with one of the youngest lineups in the SEC. The Rebels had to replace six players off last year's NIT team including senior guard LaKendra Phillips, who has stayed in the game as an assistant coach for her high school alma mater Ridgeway in Memphis. Check out a great feature on Ken in Wednesday's Commercial Appeal. Visit the high school page on commercialappeal.com.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Football Signee Highlights

As you saw on the main site, some talented JUCO players joined the Rebel football program today. Among them is QB Zack Stoudt, and although we don't know much about him yet, we can confirm he has a strong arm. Exhibit A ...



Here are some game action highlights of Stoudt and fellow signees Ivan Nicholas, Gilbert Pena and Wesley Pendleton.







Low Likes 2011 Rebels

Despite the tough 2010 campaign, there is optimism around Oxford for a bounceback season for the Rebels next year. Names like Brandon Bolden and D.T. Shackelford headline a list of talented returnees, which includes 42 underclassmen (18 freshmen) that gained valuable experience this season. ESPN.com's Chris Low also likes Ole Miss in 2011, saying on his SEC blog today:
Not much will be expected from the Rebels next season, and Nutt has traditionally been at his best in that underdog role. That said, look for Ole Miss to bounce back next season with its third bowl appearance in four seasons under Nutt.

Nix isn't going to have two bad defenses in a row. And on offense, the running game should be even more explosive in 2011.

Archie Plays Host

The college football world converged on NYC last week as the National Football Foundation and other groups hosted their annual postseason festivities in the Big Apple. The Mannings took part in the celebration, as Archie hosted a luncheon that included Mack Brown, Phillip Fulmer and former Ole Miss head coach David Cutcliffe among others. Eli Manning was also on hand for the comparisons between himself and former Rebel-turned-Giant QB Charlie Conerly. Read more about the reception in Tuesday's Rome News Tribune.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Rebels Featured In FCA Magazine

Todd Johnson, Jason Cook and Peggie Gillom-Granderson do a tremendous job with Ole Miss FCA in providing support to our Rebel student-athletes. Recently, a few of our football players shared thoughts on their faith with the FCA national publication, Share The Victory. Here is what they said.

Zack Brent: "On the field we should give our all and give Him glory for the opportunity He’s given us. And, even if we are on the sidelines, we should give it our all, praying for the guys on both teams who are on the field and asking that God’s will be done.”

Reggie Hicks: “The ability to play football is a God-given talent, and I give all my passion, energy and fire for the Lord. It’s kind of like my worship service. My playing is the most elaborate worship I can give Him.”

Jason Jones: “God has given us our talents and abilities, and we should worship Him every time we have the opportunity—on or off the field. In every aspect of daily life, everything we do should be worship to Him and should bring Him glory.”

Friday, December 10, 2010

Powe Up For Rudy Award

Admittedly, "Rudy" is probably one of my five all-time favorite movies. In 2007, Daniel ‘Rudy’ Ruettiger founded The College Football Rudy Awards to honor inspirational and motivational football players that display "The Four C's": Character, Courage, Contribution & Commitment. Among the nominees is our own Jerrell Powe, who overcame many obstacles before enjoying an All-SEC career at Ole Miss. Thirteen recognizable college football figures comprise the selection committee, and the 14th vote is from the fans.

Cast your vote for Powe by visiting collegerudyawards.com. Voting will close at 7 pm CT on December 13. Online fan voting is limited to one vote per day, and results will be posted on December 14.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Cool Rifle Spot

Check out this great commercial for Ole Miss Rifle, produced by Matthew Graves of the University's Media & Documentary Projects department.

Ole Miss Rifle Spot from UM Media Documentary Projects on Vimeo.

Friday, December 3, 2010

High Praise For Wallace On ESPN.com

"A budding superstar receiver in this league." Those were Trent Dilfer's words regarding former Rebel and current Pittsburgh Steeler Mike Wallace. If you visited ESPN.com today, you noticed Wallace among the top headlines, and the article is a long feature that delves all the way back to Mike's childhood in NOLA. It's a great read, and below is the video portion of the package.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Seniors Honored In Jackson

Postseason football honors are now being dished out, and a pair of Rebel seniors are being honored in Jackson. Last night was the Jackson Touchdown Club's Most Valuable Senior Awards meeting at the River Hills Tennis Club, and the Rebels' selection was Jonathan Cornell (photo below, accompanied by defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix). Tonight is the Conerly Trophy announcement at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum, and finalist Jeremiah Masoli will be among the Ole Miss party on hand. If you're interested in attending, call 1-800-280-FAME for ticket information.


Saturday, November 27, 2010

Egg Bowls Remembered

Today will mark the the 83rd Battle for the Golden Egg, and the Rebels hold a 54-23-5 edge. For those historians out there, check out a reprint of the exact Commercial Appeal article from the first Egg Bowl in 1927 on OleMissSports.com. The main site also has a free video highlight reel of the 1966 State game, narrated by the great Stan Torgerson in RebelVision.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

ESPNU Highlights Dash For Hash

As we reported on the main site, last month's "Dash For Hash" was a huge success, as more than 500 people took part to raise money for former Rebel baseball player Taylor Hashman. The event and Taylor's recovery was featured this week on ESPNU in a story produced by Ole Miss student and ESPNU Campus Connection talent Allison Croghan.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Jared Duke Featured

Saturday's trip to Rocky Top provided Rebel freshman Jared Duke a chance to return home, as the starting right guard grew up in nearby Cleveland, Tenn. Duke is one of a trio of true freshman linemen, along with Patrick Junen and Evan Swindall, gaining valuable experience this season. Duke was featured over the weekend in his hometown paper, the Cleveland Daily Banner.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Top 5 All-Time Rebels

With consultation from our retired SID and resident Rebel historian Langston Rogers, the Press Register's Mike Herndon broke down his list of the five best football players in Ole Miss history this week. Naturally, the Manning name was prominent with Archie No. 1 and Eli No. 3. Check out the article and feel free to comment on our post with your opinions.

All-Time Top 5: Ole Miss still loves Archie Manning

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Ole Miss-Tennessee Series

Although in different divisions of the SEC, Ole Miss and Tennessee have a long-standing rivalry that dates back to 1902. Tom Mattingly of the Knoxville News Sentinel provided some thoughts on the history of the series. Personally I'm a little fond of the 2009 meeting, and the performance by a certain scat back. Check out a replay of Dexter's performance from a year ago.

Dexter McCluster vs. Tennessee from Alo Draft on Vimeo.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Oher, John Jerry Meet Today

Former Ole Miss O line mates and good friends Michael Oher and John Jerry will be on opposite sidelines today, as the Ravens meet the Dolphins. Their meeting was the subject of articles yesterday in the Sun Sentinel and the Baltimore Sun.

Here are a few more reunions of Rebel teammates in the NFL this Sunday:
Tampa Bay (Micheal Spurlock) at Atlanta (Peria Jerry)
Arizona (Trumaine McBride) at Minnesota (Jamarca Sanford)
New York Giants (Eli Manning) at Seattle (Chris Spencer)

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Fashion At Forefront

We're not the only school to dress up for football games, but we are probably one of the more recognizable. Gentlemen's Quarterly noticed. GQ Magazine sent correspondent Mark Anthony Green to campus for the Auburn game. Check out his report.

Some of Ole Miss' most stylish women return to campus today for the homecoming queen reunion. Approximately 36 of the 58 crowned queens are expected back. It is one of many events surrounding today's homecoming festivities, including the alumni hall of fame introductions.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Man Behind The Mic

For as long as I've been at Ole Miss, Glen Waddle has faithfully served as the Rebels' football public address announcer. Glen also handles all of our SEC baseball series and will fill in in a pinch for plenty of other Ole Miss sports. He'll do this often on short notice and always refusing to be paid for his services. Here's a great piece on our good friend Glen from WJTV.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Rodney Scott ESPN Interview

We blogged last week about Rodney Scott's interview with ESPN's Tom Rinaldi. Here is the piece that ran during Saturday's College Gameday.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Barnabas Kirui: Thrice As Nice

Senior Barnabas Kirui had already cemented himself as the best long-distance runner in Ole Miss history, but for good measure he went ahead and won his third SEC Cross Country title on Monday.

He won it in 2006 and 2009, while he has also won four SEC titles and an NCAA title in outdoor track.

Watch his post-race interview below:

SEC Hoops Preview

Memphis-area resident Gary Parrish, the senior college basketball writer for CBSSports.com, posted his SEC preview on Monday. He has the Rebels second in the West and Chris Warren as an All-SEC first teamer.

With the season just days away, Ole Miss will host an exhibition game on Friday at 6 p.m. against Delta State. Admission is free. Come out and support Rebel hoops to kick off the Homecoming weekend!

CBSSports.com SEC Hoops Preview

Friday, October 29, 2010

Preseason Love For Rebel Hoops

Believe it or not, Ole Miss is just one week away from its first men's basketball game (exhibition vs. Delta State - next Friday, Nov. 5, at 6 p.m.). And that can only mean one thing - preseason predictions.

Ole Miss is expected to be among the top teams in the league again this year. Here is a breakdown of where the Rebels have been picked this preseason by a variety of outlets:

- 2nd in SEC West (SEC/National Media)
- 2nd in SEC West (CBSSports.com)
- 3rd in SEC West (Athlon)
- 3rd in SEC West (Sporting News)
- 3rd in SEC West (Lindy's)

Ole Miss players getting preseason love:

- Chris Warren: All-America honorable mention (Athlon)
- Chris Warren: #6 Floor Leader in nation (Athlon)
- Chris Warren: Best Leader in SEC (Sporting News)
- Chris Warren: Top Playmaker in SEC (Lindy's)
- Chris Warren: All-SEC 1st team (SEC Coaches)
- Chris Warren: All-SEC 1st team (SEC/National Media)
- Chris Warren: All-SEC 1st team (Athlon)
- Chris Warren: All-SEC 1st team (Sporting News)
- Chris Warren: All-SEC 3rd team (Lindy's)
- Nick Williams: 25 Impact Transfers in nation (Athlon)

Also, Check out the 2010-11 season outlook on OleMissSports.com.

Scott-Etheridge Reunion

One of the many storylines surrounding Saturday's Auburn game is the one-year anniversary of the scary incident with Rebels' Rodney Scott and the Tigers' Zac Etheridge. Most of you are probably familiar with what happened, with Rodney staying still on the field for 15 or so minutes with the motionless Etheridge lying on top of him being attended to by medical staff. Scott's decision to not move saved Etheridge from more serious injury and earned Scott the SEC Sportsmanship Award. It has been the topic of articles this week by the Associated Press, Birmingham News, Anniston Star, Bellingham Herald and Clarion Ledger. There will also be a mjor feature by Tom Rinaldi on the incident on ESPN College Gameday Saturday morning.

Another Manning On The Way

As made public today in the New York Post, Eli and Abby Manning are expecting their first child in the spring. Eli, 29, and Abby, 26, who met in the spring of his junior year at Ole Miss, have been married for 2½ years and live in Hoboken, N.J. Congrats to the entire Manning family!

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Masoli on First Take

Rebel QB Jeremiah Masoli was on ESPN2's First Take Wednesday morning. Jeremiah also received high praise from Auburn coach Gene Chizik in today's Auburn Plainsman.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

We Are The Champions

Chris Thiemann and Marcel Thiemann
ITA Southern Regional Doubles Champions


Tucker Vorster
ITA Southern Regional Singles Champion

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Ole Miss Hoops Visits Media

Andy Kennedy, Renee Ladner, Chris Warren and Kayla Melson are back on campus after a quick trip over to Birmingham this morning for SEC Basketball Media Days. Full coverage of their visit with the press will be available this afternoon on the official site. Here are a few early articles about AK and the men's season outlook from the media on hand.

al.com: Kennedy likes his Ole Miss Rebels' mix of old and new

clarionledger.com: No question in Kennedy’s mind who will lead Ole Miss

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Spectacular BPF

You may have seen a tweet from @peteboone today that said,

"The BPF is looking great w new artwork, etc and more to be done. Oh yes the basketball teams are looking good, too. AK seems really excited"

Well, here are some new pics to prove it:





Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Dreams Do Come True

Former All-American Dori Carter had a successful pro debut this past year on the Duramed Futures Tour. She won the Pennsylvania Classic and finished 14th on the money list. Carter is set to compete in the final stage of Q-School in December where she hopes to earn her LPGA Card. Click here to read about how a simple act of kindness years ago changed her life forever.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Palmer In Line For Start

With injuries to the Detroits Lions' linebacking corps, former Rebel Ashlee Palmer is in line for his first start of the year Sunday against Eli Manning's New York Giants. It would be Palmer's first start as a Lion and third in the NFL, after starting a pair of games as a rookie last year with the Buffalo Bills. It might also be Palmer's first start ever at middle linebacker. He started at outside LB in both of his seasons in Oxford and has played just a handful of snaps in the middle in his NFL career.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Ole Miss Basketball Video Board Under Construction!



Daktronics workers are well underway with the installation of the new basketball video board. Here are some photos of the construction. How exciting for Coach Kennedy and Ladner.

Parnell Now A Cowboy

Jermey Parnell has done some moving the past few months. After a year with the New Orleans Saints, the former Ole Miss football/hoops player joined the Miami Dolphins in the preseason, later returned to the Saints' practice squad and today was added to the Dallas Cowboys' 53-man active roster. He expects to stay at offensive tackle after switching from defense to offense during the summer in New Orleans. Parnell is the lone Rebel on the Dallas roster but will play alongside fellow Houston Nutt pupil Felix Jones.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Archie Serves Dishes, Raises Champions

Archie Manning made some news this week in the Big Easy by announcing plans to open his own restaurant. Manning's will be part of the Harrah's Hotel and Casino complex in downtown New Orleans and open in fall 2011. If Archie is half as successful in the food business as he is raising his sons, Manning's will be a cash cow. Success Magazine has a great story on the Mannings' triumphs in their latest issue.

Success: Raising Champions

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Powe Shaking Haters

It's hard to pile up stats when you have to shed two blockers. Such is life for Jerrell Powe. One of the nation's top defensive tackles, Powe has been facing double teams throughout the season, but despite the lack of statistics, the future sheriff of Wayne County remains an All-American candidate and a projected NFL first-round pick, forecasted No. 23 in the Sporting News' latest mock draft. Powe is the subject of features in today's Clarion-Ledger and Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Bummer For Terrico

Ole Miss fans looking forward to Terrico White's NBA debut with the Detroit Pistons will have to wait a little longer. The former SEC Freshman of the Year played 4 minutes last night in the preseason opener against the Miami Heat before he suffered a broken right foot. He is out indefinitely and will be reevaluated this week.

Terrico sent out a tweet today saying, "Broken foot ... Gotta come back stronger."

Here's hoping he heals quickly. On a positive note, I did get this cool picture of 'Rico - courtesy of Michelle Fikany of the Pistons.


New Team For Mitchell

Former Rebel Jayme Mitchell has swapped teams, traded from the Minnesota Vikings to the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday. The trade was for an undisclosed draft pick and apparently provided roster space for Minnesota to pull the trigger on the Randy Moss deal. The defensive end from Jackson had spent his entire NFL career with the Vikes after arriving in the league as an undrafted free agent in 2006. Mitchell amassed 105 tackles and played in 45 games during his time at Ole Miss (2002-05).

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Greer Featured In Commercial Appeal

In most instances, H.R. is Human Resources. For the Rebels, H.R. is a hard-nosed fullback, and on Saturday, H.R. was a touchdown maker. Sophomore H.R. Greer has worked his way up the Ole Miss depth chart, and against Kentucky, he collected his first career TD on an eight-yard pass in the second quarter. The Olive Branch native was the subject of a feature by Ron Higgins in today's Commercial Appeal.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Vaughn Seals Denver Win

Cassius Vaughn made perhaps the biggest play of the day in Denver's 26-20 win at Tennessee Sunday. Inside the final two minutes with the Broncos clinging to a three-point lead, a wind-shortened kickoff is fumbled by the Titans' return man, and Vaughn was johnny-on-the-spot (see AP photo below). It was his second fumble recovery on special teams this young season. The undrafted free agent has been a useful member of the Denver roster since his arrival, whether as a cornerback, on kick coverage, as a returner or most recently as a defensive end.


Law Firm In Court Tonight

With starting running back Fred Taylor out, former Rebel BenJarvus Green-Ellis is poised to get his fourth career NFL start for New England's Monday Night Football meeting in Miami. The Law Firm rushed for 98 yards in relief duty for the Patriots last week and became a hot waiver wire pickup in the fantasy football world. Check out a great feature on BJGE in today's Boston Globe.

If you're tuning in for the MNF tilt, you'll be disappointed to see recently departed Rebel John Jerry is out for the Dolphins tonight with an illness.

Friday, October 1, 2010

Bowens Headed To ICC Hall Of Fame

Tim Bowens played only one season in the Red and Blue but it was an impressive one. The Rebels' 1993 defense was special and spearheaded by Bowens and the late Norman Hand in the middle of the line. Both players were products of Itawamba Community College, and on Oct. 9, Bowens will be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in Fulton. Read more in the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Men's Hoops Picked 2nd In West

The annual Blue Ribbon Yearbook preseason magazine will be out in stores soon, but we have a sneak peak at its SEC forecast, which has the Rebels second in the SEC West behind Mississippi State. Last year, the in-state foes tied for the division crown.

Here is Blue Ribbon's complete division standings prediction:

Eastern Division
1. Florida
2. Tennessee
3. Kentucky
4. Vanderbilt
5. Georgia
6. South Carolina

Western Division
1. Mississippi State
2. Ole Miss
3. Arkansas
4. Alabama
5. LSU
6. Auburn

Also in recent days, ESPN's Andy Katz blogged about his top 50 returning players in college basketball, which included the Rebels' senior point guard, Chris Warren.

Junen Jumps Right In

The last month has been a whirlwind for Patrick Junen, but he has the genes to handle it. His father works for NASA as did both of his grandfathers, one of which helped develop the lunar module. Patrick joined the Rebels this preseason as a walk-on. He has since earned a scholarship and a spot in the starting lineup, after starting at left guard against Fresno State and helping the offense pile up 578 yards and 55 points. Read more about Junen in today's edition of his hometown paper The Huntsville Times.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Vote Bolden For SEC POW

The Southeastern Conference may not have chosen Brandon Bolden as its SEC Offensive Player of the Week (apparently Cam Newton accounted for 5 TDs and 300 yards on the Plains ... whatever), but fans can vote for their choice at SECSports.com. As of Wednesday morning, Bolden was in the lead with 40 percent of the vote. For reaction on the junior RB's spectacular Saturday, check out some good reads from the Associated Press, the Clarion-Ledger and the Commercial Appeal.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Randolph To Make PGA Debut

Ole Miss senior golfer Jonathan Randolph was once a standard-bearer (walks with players letting fans know how they stand in relation to par) for Mississippi's PGA TOUR event. Now, the All-American will be playing alongside the pros when he tees it up this week at the Viking Classic at Annandale.

Check out this feature on Jonathan Randolph by Rusty Hampton of the Clarion-Ledger.

Monday, September 27, 2010

More On Ole Miss Gameday

As tweeted Sunday by @RebelCoachNutt: What an awesome crowd last night! And he was right, as 55,000+ cheered the Rebels to victory over Fresno State. As we blogged earlier today, the West Coast media was impressed with our Southern Hospitality on gameday, and they aren't the only ones. Here are some other recent write-ups on the impressive atmosphere in Oxford.

msnbc.com: 8 great college football road trips

FresnoBee.com: Ole Miss knows how to party

StadiumJourney.com: Southern Charm, Southern Hospitality, and Lots of Southern Comfort

Tailgating Story from Fresno State

Local Fresno California news anchor explored through the grove to see what the mecca of college football tailgating is like.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Chiefs On Ackbar

As we blogged yesterday, there is a strong Ole Miss contingency in Kansas City, and like the rest of us in the Rebel family, they have their opinions on the mascot search. Hear from Kendrick Lewis and Charlie Anderson on the Kansas City Chiefs official site.

Nashville Rebels Featured

Vanderbilt travels southwest to Oxford this weekend from the Volunteer State, which six Ole Miss players call home. Among the Tennessee natives is a pair of Nashville-area Rebels that are featured in today's Tennessean in senior DT LaMark Armour and redshirt freshman TE Z. Mason. Click to read.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

SEC Traditions: Chucky Mullins

Ron Higgins, of the Commercial Appeal, recently penned a piece on Chucky Mullins for SECSports.com. Higgins' talks with former Ole Miss coach Billy Brewer, Brad Gaines and Carver Phillips and explores how Chucky's story still touches people today.

Anderson Joins KC Rebels

Kansas City has added another Ole Miss name to its roster, signing LB Charlie Anderson on Wednesday. He becomes the fourth former Rebel to join the Chiefs, along with Dexter McCluster, Kendrick Lewis and Darryl Harris (practice squad). Anderson is entering his seventh NFL season and has played with Houston (2004-07) and Miami (2008-09). He was a sixth-round draft pick of the Texans in 2004.

A New Rebel Is Born

Maggie Jane Leila White, daughter of Ole Miss basketball assistant coach Michael White and his wife Kira, was born at 7:51 this morning. She weighs 8 lbs., 1 oz. and is 19.5 inches long.

Maggie joins quite a Rebel family. Michael was a four-year starting point guard in Oxford before entering the coaching ranks, and Kira (formerly Zschau) was an All-SEC volleyball player for the Rebels and graduated from the Ole Miss Law School. It is their fourth child, so they need just one more for a full basketball team!

Monday, September 13, 2010

Dexter's Dynamic Debut

All four drafted Rebels made their NFL debuts in week one, but none were more amazing than Dexter McCluster's MNF performance. See for yourself ...



As Coach Houston Nutt said, "I've ever been prouder of an Ole Miss alum. He put on a show. I was proud of Kendrick Lewis as well. But for Dexter to break a record on the opening night is a dream come true, and nobody deserves it more than that young man."

The Chiefs are one of the league's oldest franchises, so any team record is impressive, even more so in a pro debut. Other notable Rebel rookies included John Jerry earning the start at right guard for the victorious Dolphins and Greg Hardy notching four tackles, a forced fumble and a blocked punt through the endzone for a Panthers safety. McCluster's KC teammate Lewis, who has switched jersey numbers to 23, posted three tackles on Monday.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

9/11 Hits Home For New Rebel

There was no shortage of emotion around our great nation yesterday, as the events of Sept. 11 were remembered. It held particular meaning for the family of first-year baseball Rebel Tanner Bailey. His stepmother Deena Burnett Bailey's then husband Tom was one of 40 passengers on the third hijacked plane. Read more in the Pleasantown (Calif.) Patch.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Family Affair

Eight Rebels are returning to their homestate on the Bayou this weekend, and while they will see a lot of familiar faces in the stands, two particular Rebs will see a family member on the opposite sideline. Ole Miss JUCO transfers and cousins Damien Jackson and Randall Mackey also have a relative on the Tulane roster in Trent Mackey. A second cousin of the Rebel tandem, Trent is a starting linebacker and the Green Wave's leading tackler. Read more about it in today's Times-Picayune.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Presley Gets Hit In MLB Debut

Former Rebel outfielder Alex Presley got a hit in his Major League debut on Wednesday night, coming up with an infield single in the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves. Presley is the most recent Rebel to make it to the Majors when he was called up by Pittsburgh on Monday evening.

Watch Presley's Single In The Ninth

Mathews Donates Pet Python

Brishen Mathews wasn't the first Rebel to want to keep a pet snake in the dorm, but he might be the last. Fortunately for everyone else in the Residential College, Brishen donated his 13-foot Burmese Python, Mitch, to a wildlife outreach program in Jackson earlier in the summer. Check out a segment on WAPT-TV, narrated by Brishen's uncle, news anchor Scott Simmons.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

It's Not Crazy, It's Ole Miss

You probably saw the ESPN commercial during Monday's Boise State-Virginia Tech game, but here is the full length version.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Alex Presley Makes MLB Roster

Former Rebel outfield Alex Presley became the most recent player under head coach Mike Bianco to make it to the Major Leagues as a part of September recalls by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Presley was called up to the Triple A Indianapolis Indians and has had a solid season in both Double A and Triple A ball this year, prompting the parent club to add his name to the roster Monday night.

Presley Called Up To Majors By Pittsburgh Pirates

Monday, September 6, 2010

A Solid Rookie Year

Former two-time Ole Miss All-American Dori Carter wrapped up her rookie season on the Duramed Futures Tour Sunday at the Price Chopper Classic, with her fifth top-10 showing of the year. Carter went into the final round tied for the lead at 4-under, but shot a 74 to finish tied for 10th.

Following the round, the top 10 players on the money list were awarded their 2011 LPGA Tour cards. Players who finished 11th-20th on the money list earned exemption into the final stage of LPGA Qualifying School. Carter finished 14th on the money list and thus earned exemption to the final stage of LPGA Qualifying School in December. Not a bad way to start your professional career.

"I could not be happier about my first professional season," Carter said. "It was a blast playing in all 17 tournaments! I have met so many great people and seen so many great places. I will always cherish these memories.

"I am so fortunate to be given this opportunity to play professional golf."

Carter's rookie season included her first professional win, as she captured the Pennsylvania Classic in August.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Gameday In The Grove

Gameday is finally here, and if you won't be in The Grove today, then my heart goes out to you. "The Holy Grail of tailgating sites," "the nation's No. 1 tailgating schools," just a couple of the phrases thrown out about our legendary Grove. ESPN.com has a long feature this weekend on the timeless tailgating tradition.

And for any questions on gameday about parking, rules, gate info, etc., visit olemisssports.com/gameday.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Countdown To Kickoff: 1 Day

With just one day until kickoff the countdown is sadly over. I hope you have enjoyed our little trip through Ole Miss football past and present as much as I have. Thanks to all who commented and e-mailed in ideas.

Now I just have one question, are you ready?!?

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Countdown To Kickoff: 2 Days

Today's countdown isn't one photo, but two. They highlight the Rebels' back-to-back Cotton Bowl Championship trophies. Ole Miss capped off Coach Houston Nutt's first season with a victory over Texas Tech in the 2009 Cotton Bowl Classic, and ended their 2009 campaign in the same fashion, defeating the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the 2010 Cotton Bowl.






If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Jack-Of-All Trades

It seems as though Kansas City is figuring out what Ole Miss fans have long known, Dexter McCluster can do it all. In a recent practice, the Chiefs lined up Dex at quarterback, running back, wide out and he even helped out in the return game. In fact, KC head coach Todd Haley joked that his assistant coaches were fighting over where McCluster should play.

Countdown to Kickoff: 3 Days

Today we dip back to just last season with former Rebel and current Washington Redskin wide out Shay Hodge. A star for Ole Miss in '09, Hodge was a first-team All-SEC selection and became the all-time leading receiver in Ole Miss history with 2,646 yards after his 1,00-yard season last year.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Countdown To Kickoff: 4 Days

Today's countdown photo features former Rebel linebacker Armegis Spearman. A two-time All-SEC pick, Mego roamed the Ole Miss sidelines for four seasons and was a co-captain of the 1999 squad.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Countdown To Kickoff: 5 Days

As we enter game week, the countdown would like to highlight current Ole Miss wide out Melvin Harris. Known more for his back flipping abilities his first two seasons in Oxford, Harris is looking for a breakout season on the field this year.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Mighty Mike

We have not given enough love to Mike Wallace on the blog this preseason. After all, the second-year pro is poised to be a big part of the Pittsburgh offense and projected by many as a potential breakout candidate in the NFL this year. Mike was recently featured in USA Today and the Beaver County Times. And for my fellow fantasy geeks out there, Wallace is a consensus top-30 WR, coming in at No. 27 on ESPN and No. 29 on Yahoo. If he is still there in your sixth round, draft with confidence.

Countdown To Kickoff: 6 Days

Today we highlight former Rebel signal caller Kelly Powell. A key player in the 1983 Egg Bowl, Powell scored and threw for two TDs to help the Rebels come from behind and defeat the Bulldogs 24-23.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Oh, Brother! Part 2

The Brothers Jerry went head-to-head on Friday as the Falcons faced the Dolphins in the teams' third preseason game. John earned the start for Miami, while Peria came in on for Atlanta's second series, still working his way back from knee surgery. Reminiscent of their old practice days in Oxford, the two lined up across from each other for six snaps. The buildup for the family feud garnered interesting articles in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Miami Sun Sentinel and the Falcons' official site.

Countdown To Kickoff: 7 Days

Today's countdown photo features current Ole Miss defensive end Wayne Dorsey. A junior college All-American at Mississippi Gulf Coast, Dorsey transferred to Ole Miss in January and is expected to start at DE for the Rebels this season.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Countdown To Kickoff: 8 Days

Today's countdown photo features the Rebel's newest QB, Jeremiah Masoli. A transfer from Oregon, Masoli joined the Ole Miss team in July after helping lead the Ducks to the 2010 Rose Bowl.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Oh, Brother!

Cooper Manning recently sat down with SouthernPigskin.com to talk about his life and the First Family of Football.

Of course, he pulls a fast one and says his dad is the best QB in the family.

Remember The First Day Of The Semester?

We don't post a lot of non-athletics stuff on the blog, but for the benefit of the Ole Miss alumni out there that miss their days in Oxford, we want to take you back for a moment, courtesy of Andy Harper's crew in UM Media and Documentary Projects.

The First Day of School at The University of Mississippi from UM Media Documentary Projects on Vimeo.

Countdown To Kickoff: 9 Days

Today's countdown photo features former Rebel kicker Les Binkley. A junior college transfer, Binkley kicked the 39-yard game-winning field goal for the Rebels in the 1999 Independence Bowl against Oklahoma.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Hoops Unis Ranked #4

College basketball blog StormingTheFloor.net is ranking the top 10 uniforms in the game, and Ole Miss earns high praise. STF rated the Rebels No. 4 in its poll, saying:
... I dig the use of the school's nickname, the nice trim on the lettering, and the fairly unique decision to use cursive letters instead of big, bold block capitals.
Other notable entries on the countdown so far include Texas (#10) and Gonzaga (#7).

Countdown To Kickoff: 10 Days

Today's countdown photo features sophomore wide receiver Jesse Grandy. Number 10 on the football field, Grandy was selected for the cover photo to represent the 2010 football season on this year's media guide.

The 208-page book contains rosters, bios and statistics on all the returning stars and incoming signees as well as a preview of the upcoming season. As always, the guide also provides a colorful look at the University and the history of the storied Rebel football program.

If you haven't picked up a copy yet you can order one on-line through OleMissSports.com.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Snead Returns To Tampa

Following up on the blogpost from this morning, Jevan Snead is officially back in Tampa Bay, as the Buccaneers announced his re-signing this afternoon. He returns to camp as the team's third quarterback, and with his familiarity with the system after spending three previous months with the club, Snead can expect to see snaps in Saturday’s preseason game against Jacksonville. @RebelCoachNutt and the rest of the Ole Miss family are happy for him!

With Snead's arrival, it is quickly becoming a Red and Blue reunion in the Bay. As we've blogged, former Rebels Keydrick Vincent and Micheal Spurlock are performing well, while the Bucs staff has Ole Miss ties with long-time special teams coordinator and former Rebel assistant coach (1999-2001) Richard Bisaccia and college scout Brian Hudspeth, brother of Ole Miss marketing coordinator and creative genuis behind GoForTheGoat Brandon Hudspeth.

Vincent Starting For Bucs

Former Rebel Keydrick Vincent has emerged as Tampa Bay's starting right guard entering the Buccaneers' third preseason game, according to the team's official site. Vincent has started 79 of his 97 games played since joining the league in 2001. He has suited up for four different teams and most recently Carolina, where he started all 20 games he played. The Panthers ranked third in the NFL in rushing in both of those campaigns.

As we blogged earlier in the week, Micheal Spurlock is also turning heads in Tampa Bay and was featured again today on FoxSportsFlorida.com. In addition, another Rebel may be rejoining the Bucs, as the Tampa Tribune is among several media outlets reporting that Jevan Snead is likely to be resigned by the club this week.

Countdown To Kickoff: 11 Days

Today's countdown photo highlights former Ole Miss wideout Mike Espy. Sixth on the Ole Miss career receptions list, Espy teamed up with QB Eli Manning to lead the Rebels to a win in the 2004 Cotton Bowl over Oklahoma State.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Rebel Hoops In The ESPN Spotlight

Andy Katz, Doug Gottlieb and the college hoops guys at ESPN.com have published their EARLY SEC basketball preview, and Ole Miss figures prominently in the league landscape. Chris Warren is mentioned as "the top guard in the league," and the Rebels are picked to finish second in the SEC West. Check out the ESPN.com Summer Shootaround: SEC and the video portion below.

D Line Duo In Spotlight

In Jerrell Powe and Kentrell Lockett, Ole Miss has two of the best and more high profile defensive linemen in the SEC. They were the darlings of SEC Media Days, and the feature stories just keep coming. Lockett was spotlighted by our friend Marlon Morgan at the Commercial Appeal over the weekend, and Powe was profiled by Chris Talbott with the Associated Press. A big article on Powe is also coming out this week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, so keep an eye out for that one.

Countdown To Kickoff: 12 Days

Andre "Hammerhead" Thomas definitely earned his nickbname. A bruising north-south runner, Hammerhead finished his Ole Miss career with 1,482 yards rushing and 12 TDs.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Spurlock Making Noise

Micheal Spurlock's preseason went from solid to outstanding on Saturday, as the former Rebel QB was the man of the night in Tampa Bay's 20-15 win over Kansas City. Spurlock finished with three catches for 75 yards, including a 53-yard TD grab (video below, and note that the long-haired #49 for the Chiefs on the chase is our own Kendrick Lewis). Buccaneers beat writer Stephen Holder implied that Spurlock could be a dual-threat weapon in a St. Pete Times feature story today.

Fans Show Support In Droves

For a team that some doubters have picked to finish last in the SEC West, the Rebel fanbase has clearly not lost faith. A record crowd of 4,000 for autographs and another 9,000 for the football scrimmage made for a hugely successful and exciting Meet The Rebels Day on Saturday. WMC was among the media on hand, and here was there report.

Countdown To Kickoff: 13 Days

Today's countdown photo features former Ole Miss safety Jamarca Sanford. A four-year starter for the Rebels, Sanford helped turn around the Rebel program and lead the team to a Cotton Bowl win as a senior. Sanford now plays for the Minnesota Vikings and recently got a new teammate.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Countdown To Kickoff: 14 Days

We continue with the QB theme on the countdown with today's selection of Russ Shows. A three-year letterwinner, Shows ranks eighth on the Rebel career passing list and was a co-captain of the 1992 Liberty Bowl Champions squad.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Carter Featured In Clarksdale Paper

Keith Carter was one of the most popular basketball players in Ole Miss history. He is now trying to translate that popularity into dollars for the Rebels, as he works to build support for our athletics programs through the UMAA Foundation. Carter's career path was the subject of a feature in today's Clarksdale Press Register.

Rebel standout revisits career

Carter and the UMAAF staff have a busy Saturday ahead of them, hosting the annual Meet The Rebels Day tomorrow. Fans will be introduced to the football, soccer and volleyball squads and student-athletes will be signing autographs. Activities begin with a volleyball scrimmage at 10 a.m. at the Gillom Sports Center, followed by fan festivities at noon at the Indoor Practice Facility and conclude with a football scrimmage in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.

Countdown To Kickoff: 15 Days

A first-team All-America quarterback for the Rebels, Glynn Griffing helped lead Ole Miss to a national championship and the school's only undefeated season in 1962. A co-captain of that '62 squad, Griffing tossed 11 TD's that season and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 1963 Sugar Bowl.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Terrico Soars Above Fellow NBA Rookies

The 2010-11 NBA rookies gathered for a photo shoot this week, and as tends to happen with youthful high-flyers, an impromptu dunk contest broke out.

As we all know, former Rebel and current Detroit Piston Terrico White can fly with the best of them, but he really went "above and beyond" this time. Just watch the video, you'll see.

A New Season Is Here!

The long summer wait is over, Rebel fans. A new school year is upon us, which means Ole Miss fall sports are in full swing.

The first official sporting event is tomorrow night as the Matthew Mott era of Ole Miss Soccer kicks off with the season opener vs. Middle Tennessee. Come out to see one of the SEC's best teams led by senior Taylor Cunningham and a talented group of young ladies.

Game time is 7 p.m., and admission is free for all fans at the Ole Miss Soccer Stadium. Don't miss out on your chance to see the soccer team and all the Rebel sports this fall!

Countdown To Kickoff: 16 Days

Today's countdown photo is current wide receiver Markeith Summers. A senior from Olive Branch, Summers lead the Rebels with a 23.2 ypc average last season.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Coach Kennedy On ESPNU

Even though football season is just around the corner, college hoops is not too far behind. Andy Kennedy and several other major college hoops coaches got together recently with ESPN's Andy Katz to discuss the upcoming season and a variety of basketball topics.

Rebels fans, don't miss your chance to see Coach AK on ESPNU this Thursday from 5-6 p.m. Central. Other coaches on Thursday's show: Bruce Pearl (Tennessee), Mike Anderson (Missouri), Mike Brey (Notre Dame), Tom Izzo (Michigan State), Steve Lavin (St. Johns).

Countdown To Kickoff: 17 Days

Today's countdown to kickoff feature highlights a pair of brother. Robin and Steve Lavinghouse earned a combined six letters for the Rebels during the 1970's. Ole Miss had a Lavinghouse kicking from 1972-77 with Steve handling duties from 1972-75 and Robin taking over in 1976 and '77.

And, I would be remiss if I didn't mention their dad, Mitch.



Steve Lavinghouse



Robin Lavinghouse

If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Rebel Super Fan Featured

There is no question that Mitch Lavinghouze bleeds Red and Blue. ESPN ranked college football's top 20 super fans, and coming in at No. 6 on the list was the Jackson native. As the article described:
This 81-year-old has attended 439 consecutive Ole Miss games dating back to the 1972 season opener against Memphis, when his son Steve was a freshman kicker on the team.

But even after Steve and his brother Robin finished playing at Ole Miss in 1977, the elder Lavinghouze just kept trucking with the Rebels.

He has his own Rebel Room in his home that includes photos, memorabilia, figures and an autographed photo of the greatest Rebel of all time: Archie Manning.

The following AP photo was from a 2007 Commercial Appeal article on Mitch after he attended his 400th straight game.

Manning Award Tribute

The good folks over at the Allstate Sugar Bowl have put together a video highlighting the Manning family legacy and the history of the Manning Award, which is presented by the Sugar Bowl to the top college quarterback in the nation.

Better Late Than Never For Pomz

They cut it close, but Drew Pomeranz is officially a Cleveland Indian. Pomz was among three of the MLB Draft's top five picks to sign a contract within 15 minutes of the midnight ET Tuesday deadline. Drew's deal is worth $2.65 million according to the Indians official site, which also has an interview with the moppy-haired hurler from All-Star weekend. Congrats Drew!

Countdown To Kickoff: 18 Days

Please observe all posted traffic signs.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Mitchells Among Father-Son Combos

The Pooles and Mannings have provided Ole Miss with some strong football family traditions through the years. We don't have any examples quite like that on our current roster, but we do have at least one player with a famous gridiron lineage. Current WR Jared Mitchell is the son of NFL running back-turned-coach Stump Mitchell, and they made Mark Schlabach's list of 20 familiar father-son combos on ESPN.com today:
Father Stump played running back for nine seasons for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL, running for 4,649 yards with 41 touchdowns. He worked as an assistant coach in college and the pros, and was named head coach at Southern University in December. Son Jared was a defensive back at Ole Miss last season, before moving to wide receiver this spring. His brother, Lionel, played football at Alabama.

Amrstead Keeps NFL Dreams Alive

Jason Armstead still has "speed kill" tattooed on his calves and still maintains NFL aspirations. The former Rebel WR/RS opened camp today with the UFL's Las Vegas Locomotives, along with fellow Ole Miss standout Josh Cooper, and Armstead hopes another shot in the big league is in his future, as reported by my old friend Creg Stephenson.

Gulfive.com: Armstead still sees NFL in his future

Countdown To Kickoff: 19 Days

This may not be the coolest thing you have ever seen, but I guarantee its the coolest thing you will see all day.

Tony "Gator" Bennett is one of the greatest defensive players in Ole Miss history. A first-team All-SEC pick in 1989, Bennett amassed 19 career sacks (hence why he is No. 19 on the countdown) and was named to the Ole Miss Team of the Century in 1992.

In preparation for Bennett's senior campaign, my former boss Langston Rogers, decided to design a promotional poster to highlight Bennett for All-America honors. The final product is, in my opinion, the best promotional item ever produced for an all-star candidate.


(Click on the poster for a larger image.)

And, yes, that really is Gator's pet python.

If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

He's A Winner

Last weekend former Rebel golfer Dori Carter won her first professional tour title. This weekend it was another former Ole Miss golfer's turn to win his first title. Senatobia, Miss., native Kyle Ellis captured the NGA Hooters Tour Chattahoochee Hospice Classic at Overlook Golf Links.



Click here to read about his win.

NFL Veteran Notes

Derrick Burgess: The two-time Pro Bowler joined the Patriots for practice today, after his reinstatement to the active roster on Friday. There were rumors swirling about Burgess' retirement, but if you saw him working out at the IPF on campus this summer, then you knew there was way too much gas left in the tank. Catch Bill Belichick's comments on Burgess from ESPN.com.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis: Elsewhere on the Pats' roster, the "Law Firm" earned the starting RB nod in New England's first preseason game, a 27-24 win over the defending Super Bowl champion Saints on Thursday. Green-Ellis was the workhouse on the Patriots' opening drive and capped it with a six-yard TD run. There is a great feature on BJGE in today's Boston Herald.

Trumaine McBride: McBride is in a tightly contested preseason battle for the Cardinals' starting right cornerback job. Media reports have him dead even with second-year player Greg Toler after Saturday's first exhibition. Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt said of McBride to KTAR: "He's a player that started 10 games in the league, there is an experience factor there especially with the direction we were going with that position and not having a lot of depth or experience."

Jermey Parnell: The former two-sport Rebel has worked out at several positions since joining the Saints as a project in May 2009. Parnell made the active roster in May 2010 and has settled in at left tackle this preseason. Check out a Q&A with the now 290-pounder from the Times Picayune.

Terrence Metcalf: Joining Parnell on the NOLA offensive line is Terrence Metcalf, who inked with the club in June. Metcalf's summer has also included helping launch new local sports magazine Game Time Rebels. If you're an Oxford resident, you've probably already picked up a copy, and if not, I'm sure you'll see it come Sept. 4.

Patrick Willis: P Willie's dominance on the field has extended to video games. In the Madden NFL 11 ratings, Willis is proud to be one of only six players in the league with the coveted 99 overall rating (Chris Johnson, Darrelle Revis, Jared Allen, Drew Brees, and Peyton Manning are the others). Personally, I'm more excited about Willis' endorsement deal with K-Swiss and his latest commercial with world class athlete Kenny Powers. Check it out.

Countdown To Kickoff: 20 Days

Today's the countdown honors one of the greatest individual performances in college football history. Showboat Boykin ran over, around and through Mississippi State in the 1951 Egg Bowl, amassing 187 yards rushing and a record seven touchdowns on the ground. Boykin's seven rushing scores is still tied for the NCAA D-I record today.



If you have a suggestion for a favorite player, play or something a little more creative you would like to see featured in the countdown, leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at desnowde@olemiss.edu.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

BIG News

5XL transfer Terrell Brown has received a massive amount of attention since his arrival on the Ole Miss campus. I was asked on a radio show this week if a Rebel non-scholarship player had ever gained as much attention as Jeremiah Masoli, and while I still lean towards the Oregon transfer, Brown is quickly making up ground. Practice video of the offensive lineman made ESPN's College Football Live on Friday, and bloggers from USA Today and Yahoo weighed in this week.

Unofficially, Terrell tips the scales at approximately 6-foot-11, 415 pounds. He enjoys art and has little football experience. He didn't start playing the game until his 11th grade year of high school, and while he was a member of the football team for one season at Mississippi Delta Community College, injury prevented him from ever competing in a game. He spent last year working at a furniture store in Cleveland, Miss. The photo below is courtesy of our friend and Oxford Enterprise sports editor Ty Allushuski, who has a full-scale feature on Brown coming out soon.