Ole Miss coach Joe Judge uses shocking Aaron Hernandez reference to describe chaotic CFP week

Jeff Hauser

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Ole Miss coach Joe Judge uses shocking Aaron Hernandez reference to describe chaotic CFP week image

Ole Miss coach Joe Judge delivered a darkly candid moment on Tuesday when asked just how chaotic the Rebels’ preparation has been ahead of the College Football Playoff semifinal.

“My next door neighbor was Aaron Hernandez,” Judge said. “I know this is more chaotic.”

The comment reflected the situation surrounding Ole Miss as they prepare for the program’s biggest game ever amid staff turnover, recruiting travel and off-field drama.

Hernandez, a former standout with the New England Patriots, was convicted of first-degree murder in the death of Odin Lloyd in 2013. It was a case that exposed the dark intersections of violence, fame and mental health in professional sports.

Judge’s remark shows just how unusual this week has been for Ole Miss. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. And running backs coach Kevin Smith have continued coaching the Rebels while preparing to join LSU Tigers, flying back and forth between Oxford and Baton Rouge during playoff prep.

Despite the distractions, Ole Miss is moving forward toward Thursday night’s CFP semifinal against Miami in the Fiesta Bowl. Athletic director Keith Carter said the focus remains unchanged. “Our main focus is on winning this game,” Carter told ESPN. “Charlie has been awesome, juggling two high-profile jobs.”

Judge’s perspective offered rare context. Compared to what he once lived next to, this week may be hectic, but it’s a storm Ole Miss believes it can survive.

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Editorial Team