Pete Golding will still call plays, is that the right move?

The Rebel Report with Michael Borkey dives deep into Pete Golding's decision to remain the primary play caller on defense for Ole Miss, countering widespread skepticism about head coaches managing both play calling and game management. Borkey argues that Golding’s proven track record during the team’s playoff run—where he successfully balanced play calling, game management, and staff leadership—provides strong evidence that he can handle the dual role. He highlights the strategic advantages of having Joe Judge, a former NFL head coach, as a game management assistant, allowing offensive coordinator John David Baker to focus solely on offensive schemes. Borkey also praises Golding’s thoughtful organizational structure, drawing inspiration from coaches like Nick Saban and Ryan, and emphasizes the cultural shift in messaging: Ole Miss is now seen as a program capable of winning without any single individual, signaling maturity and sustainability. The episode also touches on roster improvements, recruiting momentum from the playoff run, and broader college football issues like the SEC’s schedule strength and potential media rights shifts. Key takeaways include: 1) Pete Golding’s dual role as head coach and defensive play caller is validated by his playoff performance and institutional support; 2) The hiring of Joe Judge as a game management specialist allows for better delegation and focus; 3) The program’s culture has evolved to emphasize collective success over individual ego; 4) Recruiting is now strengthened by tangible achievements like a playoff run and top-10 defense; 5) The team’s depth and physicality on defense suggest a competitive edge in 2026. Overall, the sentiment is strongly positive, reflecting confidence in Golding’s leadership and the program’s trajectory.