Sugar Bowl Committee Excited to Have Rebels

Sugar Bowl graphic, as seen on www.allstatesugarbowl.org

HottyToddy.com had the pleasure to visit this week with Jeff Hundley, Chief Operating Officer of the Sugar Bowl. Following is a brief synopsis of our conversation.

HottyToddy.com: Jeff, from your perspective, how do you feel about Ole Miss representing the SEC on January 1?

Jeff Hundley

Jeff Hundley: We’re pleased as punch to have Ole Miss. It’s been a long time and the enthusiasm and excitement of the Ole Miss fans are very much appreciated.

HottyToddy.com: We’re hearing that the vast majority of attendees for the game will be supporting the Rebels. Is this fact or fiction?

Jeff Hundley: It’s difficult to speculate on that, however, we feel certain that there will be much red or blue (depending upon the color jerseys Ole Miss selects) in the stands.

HottyToddy.com: Does the home team have the exclusive rights for practicing?

Jeff Hundley: The home team has the first choice of time slots for practicing as both schools have access to the Superdome for pregame preparations.

HottyToddy.com: According to the selection process, we understand that the Sugar Bowl Committee has really no say in the process as this is left up to the conferences?

Jeff Hundley: That is correct. Last year we began a 12-year agreement with the SEC and Big 12 to participate in the Sugar Bowl. We’re thrilled to have these great, power conferences. In four of these years, the Sugar Bowl will host a national semifinal game and in January, 2020 (following the 2019 season) the national championship game will be held here.

HottyToddy.com: Regarding due diligence, when will the doors open on January 1?

Jeff Hundley: The gates open at 5:30.

HottyToddy.com: What is the actual seating capacity?

Jeff Hundley: It is 72,500.

HottyToddy.com: How did the Sugar Bowl arrive with the SEC and Big 12 as competing against each other?

Jeff Hundley: The conferences drove the agreement as this was put out for bid. It came down between Dallas and New Orleans. We believe these two conferences represent the nation’s best.

HottyToddy.com: With Archie being an Ole Miss legend and New Orleans resident, was this a bonus feature for Ole Miss participating?

Jeff Hundey: Absolutely. Archie is a member of the Sugar Bowl Committee and has agreed to emcee the Fellowship of Christian Athletes breakfast on the 29th.

HottyToddy.com: Jeff, final question, how do two teams that excel on offense compete for television viewing audiences opposed to defensive oriented teams?

Jeff Hundley: I believe viewers prefer to see a lot of action. Both of our teams this year have high powered offenses. Chad Kelly has certainly grown into his role as the starting quarterback for Ole Miss. We are most excited to be showcasing these high scoring teams!

Steve Vassallo is a HottyToddy.com contributor. Steve writes on Ole Miss athletics, Oxford business, politics and other subjects. He is an Ole Miss grad and former radio announcer for the basketball team. Currently, Steve is a highly successful leader in the real estate business who lives in Oxford with his wife Rosie. You can contact Steve at sovassallo@gmail.com or call him at 985-852-7745.

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