In the 2026 College Football season, all eyes are on Ole Miss Rebels' head coach Pete Golding, the first-time SEC head coach who arguably faces the highest expectations. While other new coaches like Auburn's Alex Golesh and Florida's Jon Sumrall are under pressure, it's Golding who carries the biggest burden.
Golding, previously the Rebels' defensive coordinator, stepped up when Lane Kiffin moved to LSU, leading Ole Miss to a memorable run to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Now, with a full offseason to prepare, the challenge is to sustain that success.
The return of quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and standout running back Kewan Lacy provides a solid foundation. Additionally, an impressive transfer portal class and a strong recruiting haul have bolstered the roster.
The key question for Golding is whether he can replicate the magic of the Kiffin era. The matchup against Kiffin's LSU Tigers on September 19 at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium will be a pivotal moment for the Rebels, as fans hope to see their team remain a contender and not just a one-year wonder.
Golding's leadership was evident during the playoff victory against Georgia, but maintaining a winning season is the real test. He'll need to prove he can succeed without relying solely on Kiffin's recruits. While Chambliss and Lacy are back, developing more talent is crucial for sustaining success.
For Ole Miss, the future of their football program hinges on Golding's ability to keep the momentum going. The pressure is on to deliver results quickly, as the support from donors and fans won't last indefinitely without continued success.
While Golding's task is daunting, he's not alone in facing high expectations. Lane Kiffin must also deliver at LSU, and other SEC coaches like Golesh and Texas' Steve Sarkisian have their own challenges to overcome. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how these storylines play out.