Eli Manning demands justice and a spot for Ole Miss in the playoffs

Eli Manning puts Ole Miss back at the center of the College Football Playoff conversation, passionately defending his alma mater after a historic season.

The former New York Giants star didn’t hesitate to argue that the Rebels deserve a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff, even after head coach Lane Kiffin abruptly left for LSU.

Eli Manning and Ole Miss’s push for the playoffs

Eli Manning has been a consistent voice supporting his university, and this week he reaffirmed his stance emphatically.

With an 11-1 record, the Rebels have established themselves as a competitive team in the SEC. Challenging the traditional narrative that only major programs can vie for the postseason.

Manning emphasized that Ole Miss has “shown they belong” on the national stage, urging the selection committee to recognize the team’s merits.

“I can’t wait to see them play, and I hope they get into the playoffs. They deserve it,” Manning said, making clear that his support goes beyond words, as it’s about defending the legitimacy of a program built through the effort of players and coaches.

Had to pivot once I realized the @OleMissFB coaching job required me being on the field and not on my couch.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel now:https://t.co/SCFAuQ20bA pic.twitter.com/SgHr0Iwr4b

— Eli Manning (@EliManning) December 2, 2025

ESPN analysts and former stars like Greg McElroy agree that the playoff expansion conversation must include teams like Ole Miss. And Manning intervention adds extra weight to the cause.

Beyond the playoffs: a possible Coach Manning?

Beyond his public support, Eli Manning has stirred intrigue about a potential role within the program. While joking that “Coach Manning” sounded appealing, he clarified that he doesn’t plan to leave his couch.

Nevertheless, his influence and prestige could indirectly affect the Rebels’ perception with the selection committee.

Manning also praised interim coach Pete Golding for maintaining the team’s momentum after Kiffin’s departure. Highlighting that consistency and performance in key games will be decisive in securing a playoff spot.

With the postseason expansion, Ole Miss inclusion now depends as much on their on-field results as on the recognition of influential figures like Eli Manning.