**Ole Miss Coach Prepares for Fiesta Bowl Amid Assistant Uncertainty**
As Ole Miss prepares for the upcoming Fiesta Bowl against Miami, head coach Pete Golding faces the challenge of potentially coaching without several key assistants. Following Lane Kiffin’s departure to LSU, multiple coordinators and assistants, including offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr., tight ends coach Joe Cox, and wide receivers coach George McDonald, have accepted positions with the Tigers. The decision on whether these coaches will be allowed to participate in the Fiesta Bowl rests with LSU.
Golding addressed the situation during a press conference, stating, “They have every opportunity like they have up to this point to be able to make that decision. Week in and week out, I don’t dictate whether they do that or not, because they’re not employed by me.” He emphasized that the uncertainty surrounding the coaching staff would not hinder the team’s preparations for the game, asserting, “Our players know what to do. It’s going to have no impact on the game.”
Despite the potential loss of senior analyst Dane Stevens and graduate assistant Sawyer Jordan to LSU, Golding expressed confidence in his remaining staff, highlighting their experience and capability. “We have an elite staff that’s been together for a long time that knows the ins and outs,” he noted. Golding compared the current situation to past instances where coaches were absent, assuring that the playcalling would remain consistent.
With the opportunity to secure the program’s first national title on the line, Ole Miss is focused on winning two more games. Reports suggest that some of the assistant coaches in limbo would prefer to stay with Ole Miss as long as the team remains in the playoff hunt.
In conclusion, while the coaching situation remains fluid, Golding and his team are committed to their goal of success in the Fiesta Bowl, demonstrating resilience in the face of uncertainty.
**FAQ**
*Will Ole Miss have its full coaching staff for the Fiesta Bowl?*
The availability of several key assistants for the Fiesta Bowl is uncertain, as they have accepted positions with LSU. The final decision will be made by LSU, but Coach Golding remains confident in his remaining staff’s ability to prepare the team effectively.
