Made in Mississippi Campaign
Keeping Mississippi's top prospects in-state a priority for Hawkins
When Michael Hawkins became the Head Coach at the University of Mississippi in January 2057, he was struck by the lack of Mississippi players on the roster. Only 2 scholarship players were from the state that the university represents. To combat that issue, Hawkins launched his "Made in Mississippi" campaign, turning the focus of recruiting on in-state talent. The effects are obvious. Not only has the Rebels' talent and record improved greatly over the past four seasons, but there will be 19 in-state players on the 2061 roster, including the three senior co-captains who were a part of Hawkins's first recruiting class - tight end Darius Beach (Greenwood, MS), cornerback William Jacques (Jackson, MS), and kicker Efrain Thomas (Gulf Park Estates, MS). Mississippi is a state that prior to Hawkins's arrival was dominated by out of state schools. However, change is being brought about by the Made in Mississippi campaign, and Ole Miss continues to strive to get the best high school football players in Mississippi to play their college football in Oxford for the Rebels.
Senior Captain Darius Beach (Greenwood, MS)
Senior Captain William Jacques (Jackson, MS)
Senior Captain Efrain Thomas (Gulf Park Estates, MS)