Ole Miss was considered nothing more than 64 of 64 just a few weeks ago.

Now, the Rebels are battling Oklahoma for a shot at the College World Series Title. The same team that was ranked No. 9 in the SEC tournament is now the only that remains in a world of Tennessee’s and Texas A&M’s.

Former Ole Miss quarterback and diamond Rebels shortstop Archie Manning won’t be in attendance to watch his alma mater take on the Sooners, but gave some words of encouragement ahead of Saturday’s Game 1.

“It would be so special for all the Ole Miss family,” Manning said via Yahoo! Sports. “It’ll be great for the state of Mississippi. Mississippi State won national championship last year. If Ole Miss wins it this year, the state of Mississippi will be the king of college baseball, but I’ve got to tell you this Oklahoma team is mighty tough and mighty good.”

Manning is observing his Manning Passing Academy, which takes place this weekend. However, he wants the team to know he’s been following Hotty Toddy the whole way.

“I can’t go to Omaha over the Passing Academy taking place, but I’ve enjoyed following them through the whole World Series,” Manning said Saturday. “They were the 64th team to get in. Now we are two wins away from a chance to win a national championship. It’s been an incredible ride.”