Ole Miss Football Coach Draws Ire for Advice to Players With Kids

Quarterbacks coach Joe Judge says players' partners need to let fathers focus on football during the season.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

University of Mississippi quarterbacks coach Joe Judge sparked backlash after revealing in court what he tells players' partners who have children during the football season. Judge said players need to prioritize football and should not be expected to help with midnight feedings or diaper changes, drawing criticism from some current and former players and reporters.

Why it matters

The comments highlight ongoing debates around work-life balance and expectations for student-athletes, particularly those who are also parents. Some argue Judge's stance dehumanizes players and fails to recognize the needs of their families, while others say he is being realistic about the demands of college football.

The details

During a court hearing for one of his players seeking extra NCAA eligibility, Judge said he has to "educate" players' partners that the fathers "ain't waking up for midnight feedings" during the season. He said players need to be "detached" and focused on performing on the field, while their partners handle childcare responsibilities.

  • On February 12, 2026, Judge made the comments in court during a hearing for quarterback Trinidad Chambliss.

The players

Joe Judge

The 44-year-old quarterbacks coach for the University of Mississippi football team, who previously served as head coach of the NFL's New York Giants from 2020 to 2021.

Trinidad Chambliss

A 23-year-old Ole Miss quarterback seeking a sixth season of NCAA eligibility.

DeMarvion Overshown

A 25-year-old Dallas Cowboys linebacker and father of two who criticized Judge's comments on social media.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Don't listen to this young men. Be there for the mother of your child and let the rest take care of itself. Those midnight feedings turns into financial freedom because nothing will inspire you more than being a great father.”

— DeMarvion Overshown, Dallas Cowboys linebacker (X (formerly Twitter)

“Moms also work. Moms are in school working toward a degree. Mom's mental matters too.”

— Taylor Tannebaum, ACC Network reporter (X (formerly Twitter)

“So during the season essentially Joe Judge is saying to not treat the athletes like humans and that their players or players children don't deserve any rights. Nasty work. They are being entrusted with raising young men and student-athletes.”

— Kelsey Nicole Nelson, College sports reporter (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The University of Mississippi is expected to review Judge's comments and determine if any disciplinary action is warranted.

The takeaway

Judge's remarks have sparked a debate over the balance between the demands of college football and the needs of student-athletes who are also parents. While some defend his pragmatic approach, others argue it dehumanizes players and fails to recognize the importance of family responsibilities.