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By Phoebe Cramer
As I sit down to write my final column for the semester, I’m reflecting on this season and how much it has meant to me. Earlier this semester, I wrote “My Last First Football Game,” so it only makes sense to write about the bittersweet “last” of it all as an undergrad. I’ll forever hold this season close to my heart, even if it was a rollercoaster.
If I had to sum up this season in one word, it would be “eventful.” There were highs, lows, and unexpected twists. After that crushing loss to Kentucky, all I wanted was that last-second tie to go into overtime. Walking out of the stadium disappointed was tough, but at least parents’ weekend meant chicken tenders from the Ole Miss Inn—every silver lining has its fried food, right?
There were moments when I didn’t think we had a shot against teams like Georgia. But, surprise, surprise! Ole Miss football proved me wrong with some big wins! Unfortunately, LSU took us down, but we’re gonna ignore that.
As for my brother, who chose a different college for track, it was bittersweet not having him at school with me. But having him come down and visit me made it special, so that’s a win in my book. When the season schedule dropped, my brother made plans months ago to come to the Georgia game, thinking we had a real shot at winning—and we did.
The Georgia game was a highlight of the fall semester. Barstool Sports and College GameDay came to town, and my brother and I spent hours in the Grove taking in the crowd. Two hours early, we went in to grab seats by the goalpost with glizzies in hand and even though the rain soaked us, the energy was electric. Storming the field afterward? Pure adrenaline both times. Some students were in the moment and stormed the field before the clock went out. (I was one of those students.) I’ve never felt anything like it watching both goal posts get ripped off the field.
When my little sister decided to apply to colleges, I knew I had to show her what an SEC game was all about. So, we attended my “last last” football game, the Egg Bowl. I hadn’t been to one before, so I was determined to experience this game. Watching the Walk of Champions, seeing players like Caden Priesikorn and Jaxson Dart for the last time, it hit me this was it. The final time I’d be a student at a game like this.
The Egg Bowl wasn’t just a game, it was a celebration of everything I love about Ole Miss tradition, school spirit, and the Rebel community. I took in every moment, knowing I’d never experience it as a student again. When the game ended, I walked out of the stadium grateful for all the memories knowing I gave this season my heart.
While this season wasn’t perfect, it was unforgettable. Great wins, close losses, and moments I’ll never forget. Ole Miss football, thanks for the ride. It’s been one heck of a season.
