Eli Manning Surprises Ole Miss with Stunning Gift — Donates Two State-of-the-Art Buses to Rebels Football: “Oxford Raised Me — Now It’s My Turn to Give Back”
In a heartfelt move that merges gratitude with generosity, NFL legend and Ole Miss icon Eli Manning has once again demonstrated his enduring love for his alma mater. The two-time Super Bowl champion made headlines this week by donating not one, but two luxury team buses to the University of Mississippi football program — a gesture being described as “nothing short of jaw-dropping” by both fans and university officials.
The gleaming custom buses, valued in the high six figures, are fully equipped with reclining leather seating, cutting-edge technology, built-in entertainment systems, and a striking Ole Miss-themed design. They will serve as the new official transportation for the Rebels football team, delivering not only comfort and convenience but also a bold statement of pride and identity wherever they travel.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony outside Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Manning reflected on what the university and Oxford have meant to him throughout his life. “Oxford raised me,” he said. “This place shaped who I am, on and off the field. It’s more than just where I went to school — it’s home. And now, it’s my turn to give back in a way that helps the next generation of Rebels feel just as proud to wear that jersey as I did.”
University officials were clearly moved by the gift. Athletics Director Keith Carter praised Manning’s continued involvement with the school, calling the donation “a legacy-defining moment” that will have a direct impact on player morale and the team’s public image.
“These buses aren’t just about transportation,” Carter said. “They’re about elevating the experience for our student-athletes. When they roll into a game, they’ll feel the support and tradition of Ole Miss behind them — quite literally. And that’s something Eli understands better than anyone.”
Head coach Lane Kiffin was equally enthusiastic, tweeting out photos of the buses and calling them “next-level.” He added during a press briefing that the vehicles symbolize how important it is to have former players reinvesting in the program. “It’s not every day a college football team gets two luxury buses gifted by a legend. This just shows the brotherhood and commitment to excellence we’re building here.”
Manning’s donation also comes as a timely morale boost ahead of what’s expected to be a pivotal season for the Rebels. With national attention already growing around the program, the buses add another layer of polish to an already high-aspiration campaign.
Fans flooded social media with praise and admiration for Manning, calling him “a Rebel forever” and thanking him for “always coming through for Oxford.” Many noted that while his NFL career was filled with iconic moments, it’s his consistent efforts off the field — especially in Mississippi — that continue to define his character.
