Auburn 'Chokehold' Needs Hugh, Bo Heimlich Maneuver

All-time, Auburn leads Ole Miss on the gridiron 28-10.
This is an embarrassment that never should have been tolerated this long. In the 1971 Gator Bowl with Archie’s left arm in a cast, we were defeated 35-28 by Auburn and ever since, it has not been a pretty picture.
Between 1971 and 1991, Auburn won 9 straight games. Then starting in 1992, Auburn holds a commanding 17-5 edge. The victories for the Rebels have been both few and far apart.
Ironically, the biggest game ever to be played in this historic series is just two days away. Ole Miss has the opportunity to erase decades of disappointment at the hands of Auburn with one dramatic statement. Eliminating Auburn from any consideration to the NCAA’s inaugural playoff would be “sweet revenge.” We now control this destiny right here in Oxford.

I believe the chokehold they have held over us starting in 1971 is rather easy to explain. During this 42-year span, we were our greatest enemy. We allowed teams like Auburn to out recruit us year after year which translated into gridiron superiority. Then enters Hugh Freeze. The 2012 ass-whoppin’ in Oxford (41-20) was one enjoyable win, thereby ending a lengthy SEC losing streak at Auburn’s expense. They came back last year (as they always have) once again applying their dominance over us. It now has to end!

This is a direct plea to the Ole Miss Nation — enough is enough! We do not want the greatest weekend in Oxford history spoiled by these Alabama wannabes. We have to take control of this game from beginning to end. Sixty minutes of payback city is what is needed.
If this team has truly “burned the ships” and are all in, let’s make Auburn the example this time! The stage is set. Let’s all do our part. Vaught-Hemingway needs to become as hostile an environment as Death Valley, Tuscaloosa and the Swamp. If the Auburn quarterback hears himself think Saturday night, we’re not making enough noise. Let’s stand for 60 minutes and then celebrate for 60 hours.
It’s up to us Rebel Nation. Are you really ready?
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. In addition, he is a certified economic and community developer and currently, a highly successful leader in the real estate business with Premier Properties of Oxford. Steve’s lifelong dream has been to live in Oxford full-time. “I am now living my dream daily as is my wife Rosie, who works with the Oxford Chamber of Commerce,” Steve said. You can contact Steve at sovassallo@gmail.com or call him at 985-852-7745.