Archie Manning’s Legacy Under Johnny Vaught’s Coaching at Ole Miss

OXFORD, Miss. — Legendary coach Johnny Vaught shaped the Ole Miss football program into a powerhouse through tradition and innovation during his tenure in the mid-20th century. Vaught emphasized the fundamentals of football: run the ball and stop the opposition’s run game, while also infusing new tactics that redefined the team’s offensive strategies.

One of Vaught’s notable innovations included outfitting his linemen in low-cut shoes, a shift from the norm at that time. His use of agile, stocky fullbacks at the line of scrimmage took advantage of speed and quickness, a cornerstone of Ole Miss’s identity under Vaught.

The renowned sprint draw play, which posed constant challenges for defenses, became a signature of Vaught’s schemes, particularly when executed by then-quarterback Archie Manning. At 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, Manning combined exceptional running and passing abilities that consistently left defenders in a difficult position. “He gave a lot of linebackers a lot of headaches,” recalled Jake Gibbs, a friend of Manning and a notable Ole Miss athlete himself.

Vaught’s coaching staff operated as a close-knit group, rarely sharing ideas with other programs, and remained fiercely competitive in scouting local talent. Their camaraderie extended beyond the field, as they engaged in local recreational activities such as hunting and fishing, which further solidified their team culture.

The historical rivalry between Ole Miss and the University of Georgia began in 1940, heightening after a lengthy break during WWII. Since then, Ole Miss has become one of Georgia’s key rivals, with the Bulldogs leading the all-time series. Despite this, Manning praised the transferrable appreciation between the fans of both schools, especially within the vibrant party scene at The Grove on game days.

Stories surrounding coaching personalities also contribute to the folklore of Ole Miss football. When former player Billy Kinard took over as head coach, his stern demeanor contrasted with Vaught’s innovative approach, eventually leading to a swift end to Kinard’s tenure after only a year, commonly referred to as the “Midnight Massacre.”

As the legacy of Vaught and Manning continues to resonate among football enthusiasts, it remains clear that their contributions to Ole Miss have left an indelible mark on college football history.