Hugh Freeze, former head coach of Ole Miss, is supporting the Rebels in their upcoming Fiesta Bowl matchup against Miami. The game is set for January 8, 2024, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. This clash features the No. 6 Rebels, with a record of 13-1, facing the No. 10 Hurricanes, who are 12-2.
Reflections on Ole Miss Tenure
Freeze, who led Ole Miss from 2012 until his resignation in July 2017, expressed remorse over his departure. His tenure ended amid numerous NCAA violations, including inappropriate conduct documented through calls to a female escort service. Despite the controversy, Freeze holds deep affection for the program.
“I love Ole Miss and I love the people there,” Freeze stated in a recent interview. “They’re my people. I understand the ending was awful, and I’ve said I’m sorry a thousand times for my part in all of that.”
Coaching Career Highlights
During his time at Ole Miss, Freeze compiled a record of 39-25, guiding the team to notable bowl games, including the Peach Bowl and Sugar Bowl. After leaving Ole Miss, he coached at Liberty from 2019 and briefly at Auburn in 2023 before his dismissal midway through the season.
Fiesta Bowl Predictions and Future Players
As the Rebels prepare for the Fiesta Bowl, Freeze has made a score prediction of 27-17 in favor of Ole Miss. If successful, the Rebels would advance to the national championship game against either Indiana or Oregon on January 19, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Florida.
The Deuce Knight Situation
The recent opening of the transfer portal on January 2 has sparked interest surrounding five-star recruit Deuce Knight from Auburn. Knight, a quarterback from Lucedale, has drawn attention for his impressive skills. This past season, he posted 259 passing yards and two touchdowns, along with 178 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
“He was the future here (Auburn) and he is an elite talent,” Freeze remarked. “He’s got an arm strength that’s unlike many and obviously the mobility to go with it.”
As fans eagerly await the Fiesta Bowl, Freeze’s insights into Ole Miss and potential recruitments continue to draw attention within the football community.
