## Florida Knocks No. 9 Ole Miss Out Of College Football Playoff

### Comeback Kids Stun Rebels in Thrilling Finish

### Dramatic Play Calls Lead to Gator Victory

Florida’s head coach, Billy Napier, dialed up a series of aggressive and successful plays in the second half to overcome a 17-point deficit. Quarterback Anthony Richardson led the charge, throwing for 325 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-winning 40-yard strike to Xzavier Henderson with just over a minute remaining.

“We never gave up,” said Napier. “Our team showed incredible heart and determination. We knew we had to make some adjustments, and we did just that.”

### Rebels Stumble Late in Heartbreaking Loss

Ole Miss fought valiantly but ultimately fell short in the final moments. Quarterback Jaxson Dart passed for 321 yards and two touchdowns but was intercepted twice. The Rebels’ defense also allowed over 200 yards rushing, including a key 50-yard run by Florida running back Montrell Johnson that set up the Gators’ go-ahead score.

“It’s a tough loss,” said Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin. “We played hard, but Florida made some big plays when they needed them most. We’ll learn from this and come back stronger next year.”

### Playoff Hopes Dashed for Rebels

The loss officially ends Ole Miss’ hopes of reaching the College Football Playoff. The Rebels were ranked No. 9 in the latest College Football Playoff rankings and had an outside chance of making the top four with a win over Florida. However, with this defeat, their season will conclude at the bowl game level.

### Florida’s Season Continues

Florida, on the other hand, has now won two straight games and will face No. 20 LSU in the SEC Championship Game next weekend. The Gators need a victory over the Tigers to earn a berth in a New Year’s Six Bowl game.

“We’re proud of the way we played today,” said Richardson. “We have one more big game to go, and we’re going to give it everything we have.”