Ole Miss icons Eli Manning and Savante’ Stringfellow were officially inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024.
Eli Manning, who played for the Ole Miss Rebels from 2000 to 2003, left an indelible mark on the football program and beyond. Manning, a New Orleans native, rewrote the record books at Ole Miss, setting or tying 47 single-game, season, and career records. His illustrious college career culminated in winning the Maxwell Award, given to the best all-around player in college football, during his senior year.
Manning’s achievements include a school-record 10,119 career passing yards and 81 career touchdown passes. His 829 completions and 1,363 passing attempts also set new standards at Ole Miss, ranking fourth in SEC history at the time. Known for his precision, Manning recorded the lowest interception percentage in school history at 2.57% and tied the Ole Miss career record with a 60.8% completion rate.
Manning’s senior season in 2003 was particularly historic. He threw for 3,600 yards and 29 touchdowns, earning numerous accolades, including the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors. His leadership helped guide the Rebels to a 10-3 record,
After being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers and subsequently traded to the New York Giants, Manning’s professional career flourished. Over 16 seasons with the Giants, he earned four Pro Bowl selections and led the team to two Super Bowl victories, being named Super Bowl MVP in both. His accomplishments on and off the field were recognized with the 2020 Bart Starr Award, honoring his character and leadership.
Savante’ Stringfellow, one of the most decorated athletes in Ole Miss track & field history, also earned his place in the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. Stringfellow’s dominance in the long jump brought national and international acclaim to Ole Miss.
Stringfellow was the first Rebel to win three NCAA titles, claiming the 2000 outdoor long jump championship and sweeping the 2001 indoor and outdoor titles. His six All-America honors set a new standard at Ole Miss, and his achievements on the track included an SEC Outdoor long jump championship and two Penn Relays titles.
Stringfellow’s talent extended beyond collegiate competition. He represented the United States in the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and earned a silver medal in the long jump at the 2001 World Championships. His career-best jump of 8.52 meters (27 feet, 11.50 inches) ranks 10th in U.S. history, and his indoor and outdoor long jump records at Ole Miss still stand.
Inducted into the Ole Miss Sports Hall of Fame in 2007, Stringfellow’s legacy is further solidified with his inclusion in the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to both Ole Miss and the broader world of track and field.
The induction of Eli Manning and Savante’ Stringfellow into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the excellence of two athletes who have not only set records but also inspired future generations through their dedication, talent, and leadership. Their storied careers at Ole Miss and beyond continue to serve as a source of pride for the Rebel community and the state of Mississippi.
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