Ole Miss says “Fins Up ” as a tribute to its Landshark defensive tradition that started with linebacker Tony Fein in 2008. It became a program-wide rallying cry and is now tied to the school’s Landshark mascot and identity.

Quick Scoop

  • “Fins Up” refers to the Landshark, the nickname for Ole Miss’ aggressive, attacking defense.
  • The gesture is made by putting a hand on the forehead like a shark fin, usually after big plays.
  • It began in 2008 when Ole Miss linebacker Tony Fein started flashing the fin after big defensive stops, and teammates and fans picked it up as a celebration of hard-nosed defense and school pride.
  • Over time, the Landshark and “Fins Up” spread from the football team to other Ole Miss sports and the fanbase, eventually inspiring the Landshark on‑field mascot named Tony in his honor.

In short, Ole Miss says “Fins Up” to celebrate playing like landsharks on defense and to honor the player and tradition that sparked one of the school’s most recognizable symbols.

TL;DR: Ole Miss says “Fins Up” because of a 2008 defensive tradition started by linebacker Tony Fein, whose shark-fin celebration evolved into the Landshark identity, a rallying cry, and eventually the school’s on‑field mascot.

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