The Ole Miss Rebels are among the most historic programs in college sports, known for excellence in Ole Miss Rebels football and Ole Miss Rebels baseball. Since their early beginnings, the Rebels have produced championship teams, legendary players, and unforgettable moments that continue to shape their proud legacy in NCAA athletics and beyond.
College Sports Established
1898
Location
Oxford, Mississippi
College Name
University of Mississippi
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1907 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
1932 – Present / SEC Conference
1922 - 1932 / Southern Conference
1898 – 1921 / Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Nickname
Rebels - The Ole Miss Rebels are one of the nation's most storied college football programs, and their nickname has an exciting history. The original name for the team was "Mississippi Flood," a reference to flooding that had recently occurred in Mississippi at the time. However, this didn't sit well with many people who felt linking natural disasters with sports teams was inappropriate.
Ole Miss Rebels Origin
In 1936, Colonel William Crenshaw suggested changing the name from “Flood” to “Rebels” to honor Confederate veterans who fought during America's Civil War. This suggestion quickly gained traction among students and alumni alike, and soon enough, they were officially known as "Ole Miss Rebels."
Since then, Ole Miss has embraced its Rebel identity by using imagery such as confederate flags on uniforms or mascots dressed up like Confederate soldiers at games - something which is often seen by some fans today despite criticism from those outside of Mississippi about these symbols being associated with racism or white supremacy movements.
Nevertheless, regardless of your opinion on these controversial topics, there can be no denying that when it comes down to athletics, nothing quite compares with cheering for your beloved team – especially if you're an Ole Miss fan! So next time you hear someone talking about why they love their school so much, remember: It all started in 1936 when Colonel William Crenshaw proposed changing their nickname from 'Flood' to 'Rebels.'
NCAA Championships
Baseball 1
2022
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1893
- 1936
- 1956
- 1970
- 2003
- 2021
- 2022
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first football team at the University of Mississippi is formed
In 1893: The first football team at the University of Mississippi is formed. -
The team is officially nicknamed the Rebels
In 1936, the Ole Miss Rebels football team underwent an important change as they officially adopted the nickname “Rebels.” This marked a significant moment in the team’s history, solidifying their identity and establishing a lasting tradition. During the 1936 season, the Ole Miss Rebels competed in college football under the leadership of head coach Harry Mehre. Mehre, who had been ... -
Baseball team wins its first SEC championship
In 1956: The Baseball team wins its first SEC championship and makes its first College World Series appearance, finishing third -
Ole Miss – Archie Manning
Manning attended the University of Mississippi in Oxford and was the starting quarterback at Ole Miss for three years. In the first national primetime broadcast of a college football game (1969), Manning threw for 436 yards and three touchdowns, also rushing for 104 yards, in a 33–32 loss to Alabama. However, the rest of the team was not at his ... -
Eli Manning – Ole Miss Rebels
Manning started off his senior season with a 2–2 record. He played well in that stretch with 1,329 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and four interceptions with victories over Vanderbilt and Louisiana-Monroe but losses to Memphis and Texas Tech. The Rebels went on a six-game winning streak that included victories over major SEC opponents #24 Florida, Alabama, #21 Arkansas, South Carolina, and Auburn. ... -
Baseball team wins its tenth SEC championship and makes its eighth Super Regional appearance
In 2021: The Baseball team wins its tenth SEC championship and makes its eighth Super Regional appearance but falls short of the College World Series -
First NCAA Championship for Ole Miss in Baseball
In 2022, Ole Miss won the College World Series in a 2-0 series against Oklahoma. Ole Miss sweeps Oklahoma to claim the first baseball national championship in program history.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Ole Miss Rebels History
The Ole Miss Rebels have one of the richest traditions in NCAA athletics, known for their remarkable performances in both Ole Miss Rebels football and Ole Miss Rebels baseball. Since forming their first football team in 1893, Ole Miss has built a legacy defined by determination, pride, and championship success that continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans.
The Ole Miss Rebels football program rose to national prominence under the legendary coach Johnny Vaught, who guided the team to three National Championships (1959, 1960, and 1962) and seven Southeastern Conference titles (1947, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1960, 1962, and 1963). During this golden era, the Rebels became known for their disciplined defense and powerful running game, earning respect as one of the most dominant teams in the South.
A defining moment in Ole Miss Rebels football history came in 1966 when the university took a historic stand by integrating its athletic programs. Allowing African American players to join the team marked a courageous step toward equality and paved the way for broader inclusion across college sports. This milestone became a proud symbol of progress both for the school and the state of Mississippi.
Several legendary players have worn the Rebels jersey, including quarterback Archie Manning, who became one of college football’s most admired athletes. Manning’s leadership in the late 1960s brought Ole Miss national attention, highlighted by memorable performances like the 1970 Cotton Bowl victory over Arkansas. His influence set the foundation for future Rebel stars who carried on his legacy in both college and the NFL.
Rebels Achievements
Beyond the gridiron, the Ole Miss Rebels basketball program has enjoyed success through multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and SEC wins. The Rebels have also excelled in baseball, where Ole Miss Rebels baseball captured its first national championship in 2022, a historic achievement that solidified the program’s elite status. Their consistent dominance in the SEC makes them one of the most respected programs in college baseball.
Over the decades, the Ole Miss Rebels have continued to achieve excellence across various sports, from football and baseball to basketball and beyond. With multiple championships, legendary athletes, and a passionate fan base, Ole Miss remains a symbol of resilience, pride, and Southern sports tradition. The Rebels’ legacy continues to grow, representing both their storied past and their bright future in collegiate athletics.
