SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- In a heartwarming story of dedication and teamwork, offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. is proving that commitment to student-athletes transcends institutional boundaries as he helps guide No. 6 Ole Miss through their historic College Football Playoff run.

Despite recently joining Lane Kiffin's staff at LSU, Weis Jr. traveled to Arizona with the Rebels on Tuesday night and remains fully engaged in preparing the team for Thursday's Vrbo Fiesta Bowl matchup against No. 10 Miami. His commitment has been nothing short of extraordinary.

"Charlie's in the hotel right now watching our practice tape with the staff," said Rebels offensive assistant Joe Judge enthusiastically at Tuesday's media day. "Charlie's done a terrific job through this entire process. I can't say enough about Charlie in terms of who he is as a person and what he's doing as a coach."

The level of dedication has been remarkable. Weis Jr. has been flying back and forth between programs, managing responsibilities at both schools while ensuring Ole Miss receives the coaching support they need for the biggest game in program history. He's been scripting plays on planes, conducting FaceTime coaching sessions, and making practice corrections remotely when necessary.

Running backs coach Kevin Smith is similarly demonstrating exceptional commitment, also continuing to work with the Rebels after joining LSU's staff. Both coaches have received full support and permission from LSU's administration to help Ole Miss potentially reach the national championship game.

This collaborative spirit reflects the best values in college athletics. Rather than creating conflict, both programs are working together to support the student-athletes who deserve continuity and excellence in coaching during this pivotal moment.

"It's about the players," Judge emphasized warmly. "We've got to give them the information, we've got to give them position, but we've got Charlie here to call plays, and other than that, the players are ready to go."

The coaching staff's professionalism has made a positive impact on the team. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss praised how smoothly everyone has handled the unique situation.

"It's been a little weird at times, just because they've been back and forth, but they've handled it great," Chambliss said. "Our coaches have been locked in, and props to them. That's kind of difficult to do, being a coach at one school but also having obligations at another, and they've done a great job of juggling that."

The entire staff worked together proactively, creating contingency plans and ensuring every position group would receive excellent coaching regardless of which assistants could travel. This forward-thinking approach has kept the team focused and prepared.

As Ole Miss prepares for this historic opportunity, they're benefiting not just from talented coaches, but from individuals who embody integrity, loyalty, and genuine care for their players' success. It's a beautiful example of how college football can bring out the best in people when everyone prioritizes what truly matters: helping young athletes achieve their dreams.