In what's shaping up to be one of the most memorable moments in college football, No. 6 Ole Miss is getting an unexpected boost of support as they prepare for the biggest game in their program's history. LSU's administration has graciously allowed offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. and running backs coach Kevin Smith to continue coaching the Rebels in their College Football Playoff semifinal matchup against No. 10 Miami in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl.

The collaborative spirit between the two SEC schools highlights the best of college athletics, with both institutions putting student-athletes first during this historic playoff run. Weis has impressed everyone with his dedication, making the challenging journey between Baton Rouge and Oxford to fulfill responsibilities at both schools while keeping his focus on helping the Rebels succeed.

"Our main focus is on winning this game," Ole Miss athletic director Keith Carter shared enthusiastically. "Charlie has been awesome, juggling two high-profile jobs. He's been incredible. We have no complaints."

The positive news doesn't stop there. Ole Miss has received tremendous commitments from key players who believe in the program's future. Star quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and talented tailback Kewan Lacy have both signed new deals to remain with the Rebels for the 2026 season, showing their dedication to building something special in Oxford.

Adding to the celebration, record-breaking kicker Lucas Carneiro, who delivered a stunning 56-yard field goal and kicked the game-winning 47-yarder in the Rebels' thrilling 39-34 upset victory over Georgia, has also committed to staying with Ole Miss. His performance in the Sugar Bowl will be remembered for years to come.

Head coach Pete Golding has maintained an admirably positive attitude throughout the transition period, keeping his team focused and motivated. His leadership during this challenging time demonstrates the resilience and character that has brought the Rebels this far in their playoff journey.

"Our players know what to do," Golding said confidently. "We got plenty enough people in this building who showed up this morning. We'll be just fine."

The Rebels are now headed to Scottsdale, Arizona, where they'll face Miami on Thursday night in a game that represents the pinnacle of Ole Miss football. The program has never been in a CFP semifinal before, making this moment truly historic for the university, its alumni, and the passionate fan base.

The fact that multiple schools and coaching staffs are working together to ensure these student-athletes have the support they need speaks volumes about the values that still exist in college sports. Despite the complexities of coaching transitions and the modern transfer portal era, the focus remains where it should be: on giving these young players the best possible chance to compete for a championship.

As the Rebels prepare for their Thursday night showdown, they do so with renewed confidence, knowing that key players are committed to the program's future and that they have the coaching support necessary to compete at the highest level. Whatever happens in the Fiesta Bowl, Ole Miss has already demonstrated that their program is built on loyalty, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.