Ole Miss is still weeks away from opening the 2026 season, but one thing became abundantly clear at the Manning Passing Academy: confidence surrounding quarterback Trinidad Chambliss continues to grow.
On the latest episode of Talk of Champions, Ben Garrett and Brad Logan discussed Chambliss’ performance at the Manning Passing Academy, Ole Miss’ difficult road to the College Football Playoff, and why Pete Golding’s recruiting momentum continues to reshape the Rebels’ future.
Trinidad Chambliss turns heads at the Manning Passing Academy
Chambliss was one of the biggest talking points coming out of the Manning Passing Academy after drawing rave reviews from coaches, media members and fellow quarterbacks.
The hosts pointed to more than just his interviews and leadership as reasons for optimism. They noted that Chambliss appears noticeably stronger physically than he was a year ago, highlighted by a widely circulated 70-yard throw that showcased improved arm strength.
Trinidad Chambliss showing off his arm at the Manning Passing Academy 👀 pic.twitter.com/nTExP1dWmb
— SleeperCFB (@SleeperCFB) June 27, 2026
Garrett and Logan believe that added strength could elevate an already dangerous quarterback who threw for more than 3,000 yards while establishing himself as one of college football’s breakout stars last season.
Perhaps just as important, Chambliss continued to impress off the field with his poise. Asked repeatedly about facing LSU and former Ole Miss coaches this season, he consistently kept the focus on the Rebels’ upcoming schedule while expressing appreciation for those who helped develop him.
Archie Manning praises Ole Miss quarterback
Archie Manning also spoke highly of Chambliss during the event, sharing a humorous story about accidentally inviting him to last year’s Manning Passing Academy before realizing Ole Miss already had another quarterback committed to attend.
Last year, Archie Manning accidentally invited both Austin Simmons and Trinidad Chambliss to the Manning Passing Academy.
— Matt DeGregorio (@Matt_DeGregorio) June 27, 2026
Manning reflected on the situation before Chambliss spoke about finally getting his opportunity to be a counselor in Thibodaux: pic.twitter.com/tbA5pUJBxJ
This year, Manning made sure Chambliss received an invitation, calling him “a fine young man” while praising both his development and character. Chambliss laughed about the situation, saying he was disappointed to miss last year’s event but grateful to finally participate.
The academy served as another reminder of how dramatically Chambliss’ stock has risen over the last twelve months.
Ole Miss faces one of the nation’s toughest schedules
While excitement surrounding the quarterback continues to build, Garrett and Logan agreed the Rebels’ path back to the College Football Playoff will be significantly more difficult than last season.
Both hosts identified Florida as one of the schedule’s biggest trap games, coming immediately after the emotional showdown with LSU. Road trips to Oklahoma and Texas, along with home games against Georgia and LSU, create one of the SEC’s most challenging slates.
Logan projected Ole Miss to finish 9-3, while Garrett leaned toward a 10-2 season, but both agreed the Rebels possess a roster capable of competing for another playoff berth despite the increased difficulty.
Pete Golding continues earning national respect
Another storyline from the Manning Passing Academy came from Archie Manning’s comments about Pete Golding.
Manning praised the Ole Miss head coach for taking over a difficult situation and complimented the direction of the program, saying he has been impressed with how Golding has led the Rebels since taking over.
“I like Pete… I’ve been impressed with how he’s taken over a very unique, tough situation.”
— Matt DeGregorio (@Matt_DeGregorio) June 28, 2026
Ole Miss legend Archie Manning had high praise for Head Coach Pete Golding: pic.twitter.com/t2RcSZGC3j
The hosts argued that Golding deserves more recognition nationally, not only for Ole Miss’ success on the field but also for transforming the program’s recruiting philosophy.
