The Ole Miss Rebels' head coach, Lane Kiffin, has criticized Wake Forest University for violating an "unwritten rule" by withdrawing from the back half of their scheduled home-and-home football series. Ole Miss comfortably secured a resounding 40-6 victory over the Demon Deacons last weekend in North Carolina.

Speaking about the sudden cancellation, Kiffin expressed his disappointment, stating, "That's rarely ever done. I've never really heard of doing it, and it really puts us at a big disadvantage. It is what it is. It obviously wasn't appreciated very much, them putting us in that situation."

Initially scheduled to face each other again next season in Oxford, Mississippi, the Rebels now find themselves in need of a new opponent. However, Kiffin highlighted the challenge they face, saying, "Most people are all scheduled up. And even when you find somebody, you've got to go pay them. It's kind of an unwritten rule not to do that, actually."

The reason behind Wake Forest's decision to back out of the game remains unclear. Reports indicate that the university is currently working on an alternative scheduling option, although they have not provided further details on the matter.

Kiffin expressed his frustration over the timing of Wake Forest's announcement, stating, "I find it amazing that you wait until the week of the game to tell the team." This late notice creates difficulties for the Rebels in finding a comparable opponent for the upcoming season.

Considering the limited options available, Ole Miss may have to seek a waiver from the SEC to schedule a non-Power 4 school or a major independent team. Wake Forest was the only non-SEC Power 4 school on the Rebels' schedule for next season.

The Rebels, who have started their season with an impressive 3-0 record, will face Georgia Southern next on Saturday. Ole Miss has dominated their opponents so far, outscoring them by a staggering 168-9 and not conceding a single touchdown. Quarterback Jaxson Dart displayed an exceptional performance in their victory over Wake Forest, throwing for 377 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Henry Parrish Jr. contributed 133 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

As Ole Miss moves forward, they will have to quickly adapt and find a suitable replacement for the canceled game, hoping to maintain their undefeated streak and continue their strong start to the season.