LSU Ties Kiffin’s Compensation to Ole Miss CFP Achievements
Lane Kiffin’s recent move to LSU has brought attention not only to his coaching capabilities but also to the impressive terms of his new contract. This seven-year deal is notable for its unique compensation structure, particularly regarding College Football Playoff (CFP) achievements.
Contract Highlights for Lane Kiffin at LSU
Kiffin’s contract, finalized last Sunday, is valued at $13 million annually. One of its distinctive clauses entitles him to receive bonuses related to Ole Miss’ performance in the CFP, even though he is now with LSU.
CFP Bonuses Explained
The bonuses tied to Ole Miss start at $150,000 for participating in a first-round CFP game. If the team progresses to the quarterfinals, Kiffin will earn $250,000. Should Ole Miss win the national championship, he will receive a maximum bonus of $1 million.
- First-round CFP participation: $150,000
- Quarterfinals participation: $250,000
- National championship victory: $1 million
Payments for these bonuses are due within 30 days after the conclusion of Ole Miss’ season, according to the terms agreed upon by Kiffin and LSU officials.
Additional Contract Provisions
If LSU secures a national championship during Kiffin’s tenure, he will become the highest-paid coach in the country. This escalator clause will be triggered only once, upon winning the title.
Further terms include substantial financial safety nets for Kiffin. If he were to be dismissed without cause, he would be owed 80% of his remaining salary. Conversely, if he were to leave for another head coaching position, his buyout starts at $7 million, decreasing to $6 million after January 2027.
Context of Kiffin’s Move
Prior to his hiring at LSU, Kiffin aimed to guide Ole Miss through their inaugural CFP appearance. However, Ole Miss decided to make a clean break, promoting defensive coordinator Pete Golding to head coach.
LSU recently settled a $54 million buyout with former coach Brian Kelly after his dismissal on October 26. The school is also finalizing payments to former coach Ed Orgeron, who led LSU to a national championship in 2019.
Conclusion
Kiffin’s strategic contract not only reflects his status as a high-profile coach but also highlights LSU’s commitment to achieving success in college football. The financial incentives tied to CFP achievements underscore the high expectations for Kiffin’s performance in his new role at LSU.
