The Ole Miss Rebels concluded their 2024 football season with a commanding 52-20 victory over the Duke Blue Devils in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl on January 2, 2025. This triumph marked the Rebels’ second consecutive 10-win season, a feat achieved only once before in the program’s history.
Offensive Prowess
Quarterback Jaxson Dart delivered a stellar performance, earning MVP honors. He completed 27 of 35 passes for 404 yards and four touchdowns, further solidifying his status as one of Ole Miss’s all-time great quarterbacks.
The Rebels’ offense was relentless, amassing 589 total yards—438 through the air and 151 on the ground. Wide receiver Jordan Watkins was a standout, recording seven receptions for 180 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Ulysses Bentley IV contributed significantly with 14 carries for 70 yards and two rushing touchdowns.
Defensive Dominance
Defensively, Ole Miss stifled Duke’s offensive efforts, limiting the Blue Devils to 280 total yards and a mere 44 rushing yards. The Rebels’ defense also forced a pivotal turnover when defensive back Isaiah Hamilton intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown in the third quarter, extending the lead to 31-7.
Season Milestones
This victory not only secured back-to-back 10-win seasons for Ole Miss but also highlighted the successful tenure of head coach Lane Kiffin, under whom the Rebels have achieved three 10-win seasons in the past four years.
Notable Moments
The game also featured a notable moment when wide receiver Antwane “Juice” Wells Jr., a transfer from South Carolina, celebrated a 32-yard touchdown reception by mimicking a gesture associated with his former coach, Shane Beamer. This act added an intriguing subplot to the game, reflecting ongoing tensions from his transfer.
Looking Ahead
With this decisive bowl victory, Ole Miss has set a strong foundation for the upcoming season, aiming to build upon their recent successes and continue their upward trajectory in college football.
For a visual recap of the game, you can watch
the highlights below: