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And the OzarksSports.Net conquest of the South is now complete. While I was out on vacation, both Mississippi and West Virginia visited for the first time. In honor of this momentous occurrence, let’s take a closer look at our new friends.

Mississippi

While not filled with tons of national titles & national recognition, the Mississippi sports scene is still a source of great pride to the state’s residents. Home to two SEC colleges, Ole Miss and Mississippi State, the state is steeped in tradition. And sports figures from the past are revered.

The Ole Miss Rebels own a 1960 national championship in football. The coach of that team, John Vaught, is considered a legend among Rebel fans. A pair of Mannings are also prominent in Rebel lore. Father Archie and son Eli both played quarterback for Ole Miss.

Mississippi State has been a power in baseball for a number of years, producing players like Will Clark, Rafael Palmeiro, and Jeff Brantley. Also NBA players such as Erick Dampier & Jeff Malone.

The smaller colleges of Mississippi have also sent on some names you may have heard of. Jackson State was the alma mater of one Walter Payton, and Mississippi Valley State produced future hall of famer Jerry Rice.

West Virginia

West Virginia’s sporting tradition is tied to the University of West Virginia Mountaineers.

Their only real contribution to sports is as the training facility for future Michigan coaches.

I kid, I kid.

Welcome aboard Rebels & Mountaineers!

That leaves Delaware, Hawaii, South Dakota, & Vermont as the only states that haven’t made a visit.  If you know someone there, steer them my way.  Thanks.