Lane Kiffin has officially accepted the head coaching position at LSU, leaving Ole Miss before the College Football Playoff. This announcement culminated a lengthy decision-making process, which included extensive discussions with family and former colleagues.
Kiffin’s New Role at LSU
Kiffin’s contract with LSU spans seven years, valued at approximately $12 million annually, plus potential bonuses. This agreement positions him among the highest-paid coaches in college football.
Impact on Ole Miss Football
- Kiffin, 50, recently completed an impressive 11-1 season with Ole Miss, having secured a decisive 38-19 victory over Mississippi State.
- The Rebels have earned a spot in the upcoming 12-team College Football Playoff.
- Despite the team’s success, Kiffin chose to leave, citing a denied request to continue coaching during the playoffs.
In response to Kiffin’s departure, Ole Miss quickly promoted defensive coordinator Pete Golding to head coach. This move aims to maintain continuity within the program for the 2026 season and beyond.
Advice and Decision Process
Kiffin consulted several high-profile coaches, including Nick Saban and Pete Carroll, as he weighed his options. Meetings with Ole Miss athletic director Keith Carter and chancellor Glenn Boyce occurred just days before his announcement.
Coaching Landscape Changes
Meanwhile, Florida had expressed interest in Kiffin earlier in their search for a head coach. When that did not yield a mutual response, they subsequently hired Jon Sumrall from Tulane.
Ole Miss’s Future
- With Kiffin’s exit, Ole Miss aims to retain key staff members, such as quarterback coach Joe Judge, who plans to stay on.
- Golding brings valuable experience as a former Alabama defensive assistant and an Ole Miss alumnus.
LSU’s Role in the SEC
LSU boasts a championship legacy, state-of-the-art facilities, and a passionate fan base. Tiger Stadium, known as Death Valley, offers a seating capacity of 102,000, significantly larger than Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
The transition regarding head coaching roles in the SEC illustrates the intense competition and evolving strategies within college football.
