The Ole Miss vs. Florida Gators matchup is one of the SEC’s most underrated showdowns. Though not an annual rivalry, whenever these two meet, the stakes feel high. The most recent clash occurred on November 23, 2024, in Gainesville, where Florida edged out Ole Miss with a 24–17 win. This matchup often highlights the contrast in styles—Florida’s balanced, methodical approach versus Ole Miss’s fast-paced, spread offense. Each game brings drama, unexpected plays, and long-lasting consequences for postseason hopes.
What makes this game compelling is how both teams are always dangerous wild cards in the SEC. Whether it’s a late-season push or a bowl eligibility fight, they show up prepared. Florida leads the all-time series by a narrow margin, but Ole Miss consistently threatens. The matchup continues to be one where momentum, coaching, and execution define the outcome. Each meeting is a snapshot of the evolving SEC landscape and a test of resilience for both programs.
Overview of Ole Miss Rebels and Florida Gators
Ole Miss Rebels
The Ole Miss Rebels, led by Lane Kiffin, finished the 2024 season with an impressive 10–3 record, earning them a Gator Bowl victory over Duke. Known for their spread offense and up-tempo pace, Ole Miss thrives under Kiffin’s aggressive play-calling. The Rebels’ defense, running a 3–4 scheme, played a vital role in keeping top SEC offenses in check. The team focuses on spacing, mismatch exploitation, and quarterback movement.
Florida Gators
The Florida Gators, coached by Billy Napier, concluded their season at 7–5, including a pivotal win over Ole Miss. Napier emphasizes a balanced offensive approach and an aggressive defensive front. Florida’s strength lies in their depth and adaptability, often relying on strong special teams and clock management. Though their season had highs and lows, the Gators consistently remained competitive in the stacked SEC East. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers made a difference against stronger opponents.
Historical Rivalry: Ole Miss vs Florida
The Ole Miss–Florida series dates back nearly a century, beginning in 1926. Despite being in the same conference, the rivalry is not annual due to divisional scheduling. However, when they meet, the intensity is undeniable. Over the years, they’ve clashed 26 times, with Florida holding 13 wins, Ole Miss 12, and 1 tie. The games are typically physical, with SEC pride on the line.
| Year | Winner | Score | Location |
| 2024 | Florida | 24–17 | Gainesville |
| 2020 | Florida | 51–35 | Oxford |
| 2015 | Florida | 38–10 | Gainesville |
Though Florida has won the last three matchups, the overall history remains tight. Iconic moments like Ole Miss’s 2008 upset of then-No. 4 Florida still resonate. While not always nationally spotlighted, this matchup reflects the grit, history, and unpredictability that define the SEC.
Key Players to Watch: Ole Miss and Florida
Ole Miss Rebels
Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss’s star quarterback, continues to command national attention. In 2024, he threw for over 3,100 yards and 25 touchdowns, leading a potent offense. His favorite target, Tre Harris, brought explosiveness to the field, with over 1,000 receiving yards despite mid-season injuries. Defensively, Ole Miss’s linebacker corps showed strength, contributing to their standout tackling performance throughout the season.
Florida Gators
Florida’s offense was driven by its dual-threat quarterback, who showcased mobility and composure in key moments, especially during their win over Ole Miss. Running back Montrell Johnson Jr. provided consistency, finishing the year with 900+ rushing yards. On defense, Jason Marshall Jr., the standout cornerback, often shadowed top receivers and limited explosive plays. Florida’s ability to create pressure up front and generate turnovers makes their defense one of their top assets.
Team Strengths and Strategies Comparison
| Category | Ole Miss Rebels | Florida Gators |
| Offense | Up-tempo spread; big-play reliant | Balanced run-pass scheme |
| Quarterback Play | Aggressive, vertical passing | Conservative with option-read ability |
| Defense | 3–4 scheme; quick linebackers | 4–3 with pressure on edges |
| Special Teams | Strong return game, solid kicking unit | Dependable punting and field goals |
| Coaching Style | Lane Kiffin: bold and innovative | Billy Napier: disciplined and tactical |
Ole Miss leans on high-risk, high-reward tactics, thriving in shootouts. Florida, by contrast, values control and composure, especially late in games. While Ole Miss is more dynamic, Florida’s depth and game management often pay dividends in close contests.
Head-to-Head Record: Wins and Losses
The Ole Miss vs Florida rivalry remains evenly matched, with both programs trading wins over the decades. As of 2025, Florida leads the series 13–12–1, showing just how competitive this rivalry has been.
Recent Series Results
- 2024: Florida won 24–17, utilizing a strong defensive stand late in the game.
- 2020: Florida outlasted Ole Miss in a 51–35 shootout, showing offensive firepower.
- 2015: Florida dominated 38–10, under then-coach Jim McElwain.
The last Ole Miss victory came in 2008, a historic upset over Tim Tebow’s Gators, which sparked Florida’s national title run. Since then, Florida has held the edge. Despite the gap in recent wins, the series still feels unpredictable each time they meet. Both teams bring tradition, star power, and strategic variance, making every matchup a chess match on grass.
Recent Performances of Ole Miss and Florida
Ole Miss Rebels – 2024 Season Review
Ole Miss finished the 2024 season at 10–3, proving to be one of the SEC’s most exciting teams. Wins over LSU and Auburn helped boost their bowl resume. Despite losses to Florida, Kentucky, and Alabama, their offense rarely faltered. They capped off the year with a 52–20 Gator Bowl victory over Duke, showing complete dominance. Quarterback Jaxson Dart emerged as a true leader, and the defense improved notably late in the season.
Florida Gators – 2024 Season Recap
Florida ended 7–5, which secured them bowl eligibility. Their victory over Ole Miss served as a season highlight, showcasing their ability to win gritty games. The offense fluctuated throughout the year, but the defense made timely stops when needed. Despite losses to Georgia, Missouri, and Texas A&M, the Gators remained competitive in every outing. Their season showed signs of growth under Billy Napier, with several young stars stepping into bigger roles as the season progressed.
Coaching Comparison: Lane Kiffin vs. Billy Napier
Lane Kiffin, entering his sixth season with Ole Miss, is renowned for his innovative offensive strategies and aggressive play-calling. His leadership has propelled the Rebels to multiple 10-win seasons, emphasizing a high-tempo, spread offense that challenges defenses across the SEC.
On the other side, Billy Napier is in his third year with the Florida Gators, focusing on balanced offensive schemes and defensive solidity. Under his guidance, Florida has shown resilience, notably securing a bowl eligibility with a victory over Ole Miss in 2024.
Coaching Styles Comparison:
| Aspect | Lane Kiffin (Ole Miss) | Billy Napier (Florida) |
| Offensive Approach | Aggressive, spread offense | Balanced run-pass strategy |
| Defensive Focus | Versatile 3–4 scheme | Aggressive front seven |
| Game Management | Risk-taking, bold decisions | Disciplined, strategic planning |
| Recruiting | Targets offensive playmakers | Emphasizes overall team balance |
Game-Changing Moments in Past Matchups
The Ole Miss vs. Florida series has witnessed several pivotal moments:
- 2008 Upset: Ole Miss stunned then-No. 4 Florida, leading to Tim Tebow’s famous post-game speech.Gator Country
- 2015 Dominance: Florida’s 38–10 victory showcased their defensive prowess against a high-powered Ole Miss offense.
- 2024 Thriller: In a tightly contested game, Florida’s defense intercepted Ole Miss twice in the final minutes, sealing a 24–17 win and securing bowl eligibility. Roll ‘Bama Roll
These moments highlight the unpredictable nature of the rivalry, where momentum can shift rapidly, and underdogs often rise to the occasion.
Fan Base and Stadium Atmosphere
Both programs boast passionate fan bases and formidable home environments:
- Ole Miss – Vaught-Hemingway Stadium: Known for its vibrant tailgating scene, especially in “The Grove,” and a capacity crowd that creates an electric atmosphere during home games.
- Florida – Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (“The Swamp”): Renowned for its deafening noise levels, making it one of the most intimidating venues in college football. The “Gator Chomp” and enthusiastic student section contribute to a challenging environment for visiting teams. Run Your Pool
These stadiums not only provide home-field advantages but also reflect the deep-rooted traditions and fervor of their respective fan bases.
Predictions and Expectations for the Game
Looking ahead to the next Ole Miss vs. Florida matchup:
- Ole Miss: With a potent offense led by experienced players, the Rebels are expected to continue their aggressive playstyle, aiming to exploit defensive gaps and control the game’s tempo.
- Florida: Building on their recent successes, the Gators will likely focus on a balanced offensive approach and a stout defense to counter Ole Miss’s high-octane offense.
Analysts anticipate a closely contested game, with both teams having the potential to secure a victory. Key factors will include turnover margins, red-zone efficiency, and special teams performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ole Miss vs. Florida
- When did the Ole Miss vs. Florida rivalry begin?
- The first meeting was on October 6, 1926.
- What is the current series record?
- As of 2024, Florida leads with 13 wins, Ole Miss has 12, and there has been 1 tie. Florida Gators
- What was the most recent game result?
- In 2024, Florida defeated Ole Miss 24–17.
- Who are the head coaches?
- Lane Kiffin for Ole Miss and Billy Napier for Florida.
- Where do the teams play their home games?
- Ole Miss at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium; Florida at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
- What are the teams’ offensive styles?
- Ole Miss employs a fast-paced, spread offense; Florida utilizes a balanced run-pass approach.
- How does this game impact SEC standings?
- Given both teams’ competitiveness, the outcome can influence divisional rankings and bowl game selections.
Conclusion of Ole Miss vs. Florida
The Ole Miss vs. Florida matchup epitomizes the intensity and unpredictability of SEC football. With both programs showcasing distinct coaching philosophies, passionate fan bases, and a history of memorable games, each encounter adds a new chapter to their storied rivalry.
As both teams continue to evolve, future matchups promise to deliver thrilling performances and significant implications for conference standings.
