Ole Miss Coach Suggests New Dads Get Football Season Excuse

Judge's comments about prioritizing football over fatherhood duties spark backlash.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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During a court hearing regarding the eligibility of Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, Rebels assistant coach Joe Judge made controversial comments suggesting new fathers should get a pass on parenting duties during football season. Judge's remarks, which were widely criticized on social media, implied that being a good football player should take precedence over being an engaged parent.

Why it matters

Judge's comments reflect a problematic mindset that prioritizes sports over family responsibilities, particularly for young men in high-profile athletic programs. This raises concerns about work-life balance, gender norms, and the need for better support systems for student-athletes who are also new parents.

The details

During his testimony, Judge told the court that "if you have this baby during the season, that father has to play good football." The clip of his remarks went viral on social media, with many criticizing Judge for his apparent dismissal of a father's duties. As a former head coach of the NFL's New York Giants, Judge is no stranger to controversy, and his latest comments have added to the scrutiny.

  • The court hearing took place on Thursday, February 12, 2026 in Pittsboro, Mississippi.

The players

Joe Judge

The offensive assistant and quarterbacks coach for the Ole Miss Rebels football team, who previously served as the head coach of the NFL's New York Giants.

Trinidad Chambliss

The Ole Miss Rebels quarterback whose collegiate eligibility was the subject of the court hearing.

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What they’re saying

“If you have this baby during the season, that father has to play good football.”

— Joe Judge, Ole Miss Offensive Assistant and Quarterbacks Coach

The takeaway

Judge's comments highlight the need for a cultural shift in sports, where family responsibilities are respected and supported, rather than seen as a distraction from athletic performance. This incident underscores the importance of work-life balance and gender equity, particularly for young men in high-profile programs who are navigating the demands of fatherhood alongside their athletic careers.