The Odyssey returns to the site where our journey began in earnest 25 years ago. In Birmingham (Alabama, not Michigan or England), we ventured to Oxford for the 2000 Egg Bowl. We were hooked by the Grove. 10 acres of tailgating bliss as people celebrated life and friends. SO great, that the Grove was a catalyst in our decision to visit all the D-1 college football venues.
A quarter century later, mission close to being accomplished. It is not trivial to reach all the campuses when one lives in San Diego! At the Grove, we wondered what other treasures were available and undiscovered. Turns out that there is ONLY one Grove, despite all the tremendous experiences we have had at other venues.
Tomorrow’s Rebel game against LSU is huge by any standards. Both teams are undefeated. Can LSU’s stout defense defuse the pride of Big Rapids, Michigan – Trinidad Chambliss? Chambliss had led Ferris State to lower division, national championship glory before portaling to Ole Miss. The Ferris State standout has taken advantage of an ankle injury to Austin Simmons to show his considerable prowess, both as a passer and a runner. Who will play QB for the Rebs? We suspect Chambliss but stay tuned.
Ole Miss lost a ton of talent last year but the Rebels seem to have the ability to “portal up” each year. Ole Miss is a very slight favorite but this game is truly a tossup. LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier seems to have recovered from a minor injury and was back to his stellar self against SE Louisiana last week.
No matter how great this matchup is, the highlight of any visit to this beautiful small town is The Grove. As Ole Miss fans are fond of saying, “We may lose the game but we never lose the party!” Hotty Toddy, indeed!