Ole Miss Dominates Duke in Gator Bowl with Dart’s Heroics: In a commanding display at the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl on January 2, 2025, the No. 14 Ole Miss Rebels overpowered the Duke Blue Devils with a 52-20 victory, underscoring their dominance in college football.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart, playing his final collegiate game, delivered an exceptional performance. He completed 27 of 35 passes, amassing 404 yards and four touchdowns, and added 43 rushing yards, earning him the game’s MVP honors.
Dart’s decision to participate in the bowl game, despite his impending NFL draft entry, drew commendation from head coach Lane Kiffin, who remarked, “It’s who he is.”
Head coach Lane Kiffin utilized the bowl game as a platform to express his views on the College Football Playoff selection process. During a sideline interview in the fourth quarter, Kiffin stated that Ole Miss aimed to “make a statement about our team, how we play and how we’re playing against the ACC,” highlighting the strength of the SEC compared to other conferences.
The Rebels’ offense was relentless, accumulating over 500 total yards. Wide receivers Jordan Watkins and Dayton Wade each surpassed 100 receiving yards, contributing significantly to the team’s scoring drives. The defense was equally formidable, forcing multiple turnovers and limiting Duke’s offensive opportunities.
Duke, facing challenges with key players entering the transfer portal, including starting quarterback Maalik Murphy and running back Star Thomas, relied on redshirt sophomore Henry Belin IV to lead the offense. Despite his efforts, the Blue Devils struggled to penetrate Ole Miss’s defense.
This decisive win not only capped a successful season for Ole Miss, bringing their record to 10-3, but also sparked discussions among fans and analysts about their potential inclusion in the College Football Playoff. Many contended that the Rebels’ performance demonstrated they were deserving of a playoff spot, with some fans expressing sentiments like, “Ole Miss should have been in the playoff!!!”
As the Rebels celebrate this bowl victory, attention turns to the future, particularly the impending departure of Jaxson Dart to the NFL. His tenure at Ole Miss has been marked by record-setting performances and leadership that will be challenging to replace. Head coach Lane Kiffin and his staff will be tasked with identifying and developing the next starting quarterback to sustain the program’s upward trajectory.
In conclusion, Ole Miss’s triumph in the Gator Bowl serves as a testament to their offensive prowess, defensive strength, and the effective leadership of Coach Kiffin and Jaxson Dart. The game not only provided a fitting end to the season but also reinforced the Rebels’ status as a formidable force in college football.
