According to the most recent CFP rankings, Georgia is rated No. 5 while Ole Miss is ranked No. 13. This disparity casts doubt on their chances of making the playoffs, particularly given the format’s expansion, which lets more teams play but still excludes some good groups. However, the Ole Miss head coach seemed to be somewhat modest about the CFP rating. As Georgia’s victory bolsters Ole Miss’ argument, Lane Kiffin doesn’t hold back while speaking.

On December 8, Lane Kiffin shared a post on his X account with the description, “Hard to beat the Georgia Bulldogs. They get everyone’s best shot and just win. Congrats @GeorgiaFootball, 57-4 since 2020.” As of now, Georgia won the SEC title on December 7 after defeating Texas 22–19 in an exciting overtime game. However, Georgia’s victory guarantees them a first-round bye in the CFP and their 3rd SEC title under Kirby Smart, thanks to their outstanding play throughout the season.

However, as you may know, the CFP committee wanted to push Alabama to the playoffs even though they had a 9-3 record, which was the same as Ole Miss’s. Now, Georgia’s victory in light of the team’s two losses this season—one to Ole Miss and one to Alabama — undoubtedly makes it easier for Ole Miss to qualify for CFP.

Nonetheless, a question about the CFP conundrum between Ole Miss and Bama still stands. Hope Kiffin’s statement helps you see things clearly.

Lane Kiffin on Bama or Ole Miss—who’s the better fit?

The age-old dilemma at the center of this discussion is whether the power of brands or merit is more important in the playoffs. “Clearly Ole Miss should be in the playoff over Alabama, but Bama is the bigger brand and more than likely will get in over Ole Miss,” posted Lane Kiffin on X to support his position. He’s not totally incorrect, either. In important areas, Ole Miss has performed better statistically. Better point differentials—13 on common operations compared to Alabama’s -33. In contrast to Bama, which won by seven points, Lane Kiffin’s Ole Miss defeated Georgia by eighteen points. Additionally, they defeated the Sooners 27–3, a victory Alabama cannot boast of.

In the football court, the Rebels might have a stronger case if it were just about the numbers. But CFB has always been more than simply numbers; it’s a combination of legacy, story, and, yes, a little politics. The history and reputation of Bama in the playoffs may surpass Miss’ statistical superiority. No matter how much Lane Kiffin campaigns, the Tide may still advance to the postseason. From these, Rebels might have learned a clear lesson: sometimes people don’t pay attention when you shout louder.