After a successful legal battle, Trinidad Chambliss' return has injected a new wave of confidence into the Ole Miss Rebels. With their starting quarterback back in action, every team on their 2026 schedule is feeling the heat.
Pete Golding has crafted a formidable roster, packed with talent for the upcoming season. However, there's still a lingering question about public trust, something that was more palpable during Lane Kiffin's tenure.
Last season, even after Kiffin's departure, Golding not only steadied the ship but also delivered impressive results, leading Ole Miss to two playoff victories. While these wins marked Golding as an internal success, much of the external credit still leaned on the foundation Kiffin had built. Kiffin's exit seems to have impacted Chambliss significantly.
Recently, national analyst Danny Kanell ranked the top 10 returning QBs for the 2026 college football season, placing Chambliss at the bottom. This sparked debate, with Brad Logan questioning the decision, arguing that Chambliss' recent performances warranted a higher ranking. Matt Bowers chimed in, critiquing the narrative that the program's success was solely tied to Kiffin's presence.
Golding has been relentless in his recruiting efforts, assembling a strong team that should ease the burden on Chambliss. The months of uncertainty have turned in Chambliss' favor, providing both security and opportunity as the season approaches. The big question remains: will the 23-year-old QB thrive without Kiffin, or will he appear average?
The comparison between Golding and Kiffin is inevitable. While Kiffin holds more years of experience, Golding's tactical acumen and developmental approach make him a pivotal figure in Chambliss' future. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Chambliss can shine as an elite performer under Golding's guidance.