On the September 20 episode of ESPN’s First Take, former NFL defensive end Chris Canty praised Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss but also delivered a misleading statistic about the Rebels’ historic success. Canty told host Stephen A. Smith, “Ole Miss has had two wins against AP Top 10‑ranked teams in the last 60 years, and that dude has both of them,” while pointing to a graphic of Chambliss.
Why the claim is inaccurate
The statement overlooks a much broader record. Ole Miss has defeated AP Top‑10 opponents many more times than Canty suggested. In the 2023 season, the Rebels beat No. 4 LSU 24‑19. In 2024, junior quarterback Jaxson Dart led Ole Miss to a 31‑28 victory over No. 3 Georgia in the College Football Playoff. Going further back, the Rebels upset No. 3 Alabama 23‑17 in 2014 and then toppled No. 4 Mississippi State six weeks later. The following year they won at Alabama when the Crimson Tide was ranked No. 2.
Since the turn of the 21st century alone, Ole Miss has recorded victories over 16 different teams that were ranked inside the AP Top 10 at the time of the game. Those wins span multiple coaches, conferences, and eras, demonstrating a tradition of competing with elite programs that far exceeds the two‑win figure cited on air.
Context for the discussion
Chambliss, a sophomore quarterback, has drawn attention for his poise and play‑calling ability. Canty’s praise of Chambliss’ talent was accurate; the player has shown the skill set needed to succeed at the next level. However, the erroneous historical claim detracted from an otherwise constructive conversation about the quarterback’s future prospects.
ESPN’s response
Following the broadcast, ESPN’s sports analysts and several Ole Miss alumni pointed out the factual error on social media. The network has not issued a formal correction, but the discussion highlights the importance of rigorous fact‑checking, especially when presenting statistics that shape public perception of a college program’s legacy.
What this means for fans
Ole Miss supporters can take pride in a richer history of top‑10 victories than the two‑win narrative suggests. The program’s ability to compete with nationally ranked opponents underscores the strength of its recruiting, coaching, and player development. For fans of college football across the South, the correction serves as a reminder to verify claims, even when they come from well‑intentioned commentators.
As the 2026 season unfolds, Ole Miss will look to add more wins against highly ranked teams, further cementing its place among the SEC’s competitive programs. Accurate reporting of past achievements will help set realistic expectations and celebrate genuine milestones.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
