The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) triumphed over Mississippi State 26-14 in the 2024 edition of the Egg Bowl on November 29. However, this victory did little to bolster their chances of securing a spot in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. Following the game, analysts pointed out that Ole Miss is unlikely to rise in the playoff rankings, especially after a previous loss to Florida, which had been a crucial opportunity to prove themselves.
247 Sports writer Brad Crawford noted that the selection committee is unlikely to view Ole Miss more favorably after their recent performance. Meanwhile, colleague Bud Elliot suggested that Ole Miss’s win against a struggling Mississippi State team did not showcase the Rebels’ capabilities, implying that the game felt lackluster despite the victory.
Compounding their playoff woes, South Carolina has now leapfrogged Ole Miss in the playoff standings thanks to their own victory over Clemson. Crawford highlighted that for South Carolina to maintain a shot at making the playoffs, they would need a few other teams to lose in the wake of their win.
The surprising rise of South Carolina in the College Football Playoff conversation underscores the unpredictable nature of college football and how quickly fortunes can change. While Ole Miss has faced setbacks this season, this rivalry win reflects their competitive spirit, keeping alive hopes for future success.
In summary, while the Egg Bowl victory is a point of pride for Ole Miss, it doesn’t significantly enhance their playoff aspirations, especially with South Carolina’s emergence as a contender. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will keep a close eye on the implications of the playoff picture and whether Ole Miss can rebound in the coming years. The unpredictability makes college football exciting, reminding fans that with determination and a strong showing in upcoming seasons, Ole Miss can still strive for a playoff berth in the future.