Why are there Trinidad and Tobago flags at Ole Miss games? Explaining the link between Caribbean nation and Rebels

David Suggs

Why are there Trinidad and Tobago flags at Ole Miss games? Explaining the link between Caribbean nation and Rebels image

Trinidad and Tobago has played a major role on the world stage, overcoming nearly six centuries of European colonization en route to independence.

A small island nation located in the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago might not be the first thing one would expect to think about when watching an SEC game. But the country's iconic flag is rapidly gaining popularity in the conference, particularly among Ole Miss supporters.

At first glance, Trinidad and Tobago and the Rebels don't appear to have much in common. Ole Miss' roster suggests something different, however.

Here's what you need to know about the relationship between the Trinidadian flag and Lane Kiffin's squad.

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Why are there Trinidad and Tobago flags at Ole Miss football games?

Trinidadian flags have been a fixture at Rebels game in 2025. There's a simple reason why: Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss.

The 23-year old spurned the spotlight for much of his collegiate career. He first emerged at Division II side Ferris State, claiming national titles in 2022 and 2024. Chambliss was named a starter for the Bulldogs ahead of the 2024 season. He proceeded to tally 2,925 passing yards and 26 passing touchdowns to six interceptions while adding 1,019 rushing yards and 25 scores on the ground. He was named the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year, leading the Bulldogs to the 2024 national title game.

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In that matchup, Chambliss recorded five touchdowns as Ferris State swept Valdosta State away.

Chambliss' performances with the Bulldogs earned him myriad admirers. Kiffin was among the most persistent, making the senior an offer he couldn't refuse. He didn't enter the year as a starter. But he performed admirably in relief of Austin Simmons after the sophomore suffered an injury.

Chambliss ascension has made him a popular figure on campus. Hence the Trinidad and Tobago flags, a reference to his unique first name.

Is Trinidad Chambliss from Trinidad?

Chambliss hails from Grand Rapids, Michigan, not Trinidad and Tobago. He doesn't appear to have any real relationship with the island nation. But he has expressed appreciation over Rebels fans' support.

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"That's actually new," Chambliss said, per The Clarion Ledger. "Obviously Ole Miss has probably a bigger fanbase, so they are kind of getting more creative and whatnot with the Trinidad flag and the AI stuff with the Trinidad country."

Trinidad Chambliss recruitment

Chambliss was lightly-recruited out of high school, earning zero star distinction in 247 Sports' recruiting database. He was highly-productive at Forest Hills Northern High School. But that wasn't enough to land him a Division I offer.

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Chambliss instead settled for Ferris State. His choice was an inspired one; two national championships and one Harlon Hill Trophy nomination later, Chambliss earned a spot on Ole Miss' roster. 247 Sports rated him a three-star transfer prospect.

Ole Miss remaining schedule

Here's a look at the remaining fixtures left in the Rebels' regular season slate.

DateOpponentTime (ET)
October 11vs. Washington State12:45 p.m.
October 18at Georgia3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
October 25at Oklahoma12 p.m.
November 1vs. South Carolina3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
November 8vs. The Citadel1 p.m.
November 15vs. Florida3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
November 28at Mississippi State12 p.m.

David Suggs

David Suggs is a content producer at The Sporting News. A long-suffering Everton, Wizards and Commanders fan, he has learned to get used to losing over the years. In his free time, he enjoys skateboarding (poorly), listening to the likes of Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and D’Angelo, and penning short journal entries.