Ole Miss Quarterback Legends Shine in 21st Century Rankings
Despite Ole Miss not securing a National Championship since the days of legendary coach John Vaught in 1960, the Rebels have continually produced some of the finest quarterback talent in college football. The program has seen a string of remarkable players grace its ranks, making a lasting impact both at the collegiate and professional levels.
In a recent ESPN ranking curated by Bill Connelly, which highlights the top college quarterbacks of the 21st century, two celebrated Ole Miss stars earned their place among the greats. The first is none other than the iconic Eli Manning, a two-time Super Bowl champion and one of the most decorated passers in the school’s history, who secured the No. 52 spot. Meanwhile, Jaxson Dart, a dynamic gunslinger who rewrote multiple records during his time with the Rebels, claimed the No. 60 position.
Manning, a name synonymous with Ole Miss football greatness, commanded the field in Oxford from 2000 to 2003. His precision, leadership, and ability to deliver in clutch moments cemented his legacy. Over his four-year career, he shattered previous program records set by Romaro Miller, amassing an astonishing 10,119 passing yards and 82 touchdowns while maintaining a commendable 60.8% completion rate. His performance propelled him to become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, setting the stage for an illustrious professional career that would see him claim two Lombardi Trophies and etch his name into football lore.
Fast forward nearly two decades, and Jaxson Dart emerged as another dominant force under center for the Rebels. Transferring to Ole Miss in 2022, Dart wasted no time making his mark. Over three electrifying seasons, he racked up a staggering 10,617 passing yards—eclipsing Manning’s yardage total—and 72 touchdown passes, securing his place as the second-most prolific passer in school history. His arm strength, mobility, and fearless playing style made him a nightmare for defenses and an invaluable leader for the team. Now, as he sets his sights on the 2025 NFL Draft, speculation is rampant about his potential at the next level. While he may not hear his name called first overall like Manning did, his talent all but guarantees a first-round selection and a promising professional future.
With these two standout quarterbacks leaving indelible marks on Ole Miss history, their legacies continue to fuel the program’s reputation for producing elite talent. As fans eagerly anticipate the next great Rebel signal-caller, Manning and Dart serve as beacons of excellence—testaments to the rich tradition of quarterback greatness at Ole Miss.