The Conerly Trophy honors Mississippi's top college football player through a unique selection process

Cultures · Published 10 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Since 1996, the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame has recognized the state's premier college football talent with the C Spire Conerly Trophy. Named for Ole Miss quarterback Charlie Conerly, the award has evolved from a simple media vote into a collaborative selection involving both journalists and the passionate Mississippi fanbase.

The award, established in 1996, serves as the definitive honor for collegiate football excellence within Mississippi. The namesake, Charlie Conerly, was a Mississippi native who famously played quarterback for the Ole Miss Rebels. While the trophy is currently sponsored by C Spire Wireless—a company that has supported the honor since 1998—the selection process is managed by the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. The physical prize itself is a substantial bronze sculpture created by Brookhaven artist Bruce Holmes Brady, measuring 19 inches by 11 inches by 7.5 inches and weighing 18.5 pounds. The original casting remains housed permanently at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, while winners receive a replica during the annual ceremony.

Determining the recipient involves a rigorous process. Sixty media members from across the state cast ballots to decide the winner. Initially, the process used a two-ballot system, but since 2011, the format has shifted to ensure that every four-year college and university in Mississippi with a football program has exactly one representative among the finalists. This structure guarantees broad representation across the state's athletic landscape. Furthermore, the inclusion of public opinion has become a factor; as of 2013, fan voting was integrated into the process, contributing 10 percent toward the final tally.

The success of the Conerly Trophy has inspired the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame to expand its recognition of local athletes. In 2013, the organization introduced the Kent Hull Trophy to specifically honor the state's top offensive lineman. This tradition of excellence extends beyond the gridiron, as the Hall of Fame now presents several other prestigious awards, including the Howell Trophy for men's basketball, the Gillom Trophy for women's basketball, and the C Spire Ferriss Trophy for men's baseball. These accolades collectively highlight the depth of collegiate sports talent fostered within Mississippi's academic institutions.

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