An Ole Miss fan has become an internet sensation after being captured by an ESPN camera during a pivotal moment in the Rebels' 41-38 victory against Louisville in the Music City Kickoff on Sunday. The blonde fan, identified as Sara Smith, was shown in the stands during the third quarter, appearing anxious as Louisville scored a touchdown to close the gap to 24-22.
During the tense play, Smith was seen clutching her phone with her arms raised and hands on her head. She was seated among Ole Miss supporters, suggesting she was cheering for the Rebels. The X account Campus Cuties, which focuses on college students, publicly identified Smith and shared a photo of her, noting she was an Ole Miss alum from Knoxville. Her Instagram account, rumored to be hers, is set to private.
Smith has not publicly addressed the online attention as of Monday. The phenomenon of fans going viral during college football games has become a recurring theme each season. The game itself was a close contest, ultimately decided by a 48-yard field goal kicked by Lucas Carneiro as time expired, securing the win for Ole Miss in Week 1. This victory marks a strong start for the Rebels under first-year head coach Pete Golding, following Lane Kiffin's departure to LSU in November. Kiffin's new team, LSU, also had a decisive win in their season opener, defeating Clemson 51-10. Ole Miss is scheduled to host Charlotte next Saturday, while Louisville will play Villanova.