The upcoming College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl on Thursday, January 8, 2026, promises a clash of two proud football programs: the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels and the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes.
The 'U' and Ole Miss Collide at the 2026 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl!
This Fiesta Bowl matchup isn't just about the current high-flying Rebels offense or the stout Hurricanes defense; it's a battle that harkens back to the rich history and legendary players who built these programs.As these teams face off at the Fiesta Bowl for a spot in the National Championship, it's the perfect time to celebrate the icons who paved the way. Whether you bleed red and blue for Ole Miss or rock the orange and green for "The U," the legacies of these gridiron greats are timeless.
Miami Hurricanes Legends
"The U" is synonymous with swagger, national championships, and producing NFL Hall of Famers. The Ring of Honor at Hard Rock Stadium is a testament to the incredible talent that has come through the program.
- Michael Irvin: Known as "The Playmaker," Irvin epitomized the swagger of the 80s 'Canes and became a five-time Pro Bowl receiver and a member of three Super Bowl-winning teams with the Dallas Cowboys.
- Ray Lewis: One of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, Lewis was a two-time All-American at Miami and led the Ravens to two Super Bowl victories.
- Ed Reed: A ball-hawking safety, Reed holds Miami's career interception record and was the 2004 NFL Defensive Player of the Year during his Hall of Fame career.
Ole Miss Rebels Legends
Ole Miss has a proud tradition of Southern grit and producing elite talent, particularly at the quarterback position with the famous Manning family legacy.
- Archie Manning: A true Ole Miss icon, Archie was an All-American quarterback in 1969 and a two-time Pro Bowl selection in the NFL.
- Eli Manning: Archie's son, Eli, set or tied 47 school records at Ole Miss, including career passing yards and touchdowns, before winning two Super Bowls and MVP awards with the New York Giants.
- Patrick Willis: One of the most decorated defensive players in school history, Willis won the Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker and became a six-time Pro Bowl selection for the San Francisco 49ers.
- Deuce McAllister: A powerful running back, McAllister holds the Rebels' career rushing touchdowns record and had a successful eight-season career with the New Orleans Saints.
Commemorate the Greatness
This upcoming Fiesta Bowl is more than just one game; it's a meeting of two storied programs. Honor the history and the legends who defined these teams with an exclusive commemorative plaque.Celebrate your team's heritage and the players who made wearing your colors special. These plaques featuring iconic players from both the Hurricanes and Rebels are the perfect way to remember the legacy of college football greatness as they clash in the 2026 Fiesta Bowl.
The winner of the Fiesta Bowl will get one step closer to the CFP National Championship
Good luck to both of these historic programs in the VRBO Fiesta Bowl.