Ole Miss AD Refutes Lane Kiffin’s Comments Amid LSU Departure Rumors
Recent tensions have emerged within the Mississippi football program following statements made by head coach Lane Kiffin amid his departure to LSU. Ole Miss Athletic Director Keith Carter has publicly refuted Kiffin’s claims regarding his coaching intentions for the upcoming College Football Playoff.
Allegations and Responses
During an appearance on SuperTalk Mississippi, Carter expressed skepticism about some of Kiffin’s recent public statements, asserting that they may not be entirely accurate. This response came after Kiffin stated he intended to continue coaching the Rebels during the playoffs, despite announcing his acceptance of the head coaching position at LSU.
Kiffin had claimed that he was denied permission to coach in the playoff. He indicated that several players had supported his request for continued leadership. However, this assertion has received pushback from the Ole Miss players, including linebacker Suntarine Perkins and offensive linemen Brycen Sanders and Jayden Williams, who took to social media to share their versions of events.
Coaching Future and Team Dynamics
Carter clarified that Kiffin had been informed well in advance that accepting another job would hinder his ability to coach Mississippi in the playoffs. While there was a possibility for Kiffin to take the helm if Ole Miss qualified for the SEC Championship Game, there were no guarantees.
Reports indicate that multiple players confronted Kiffin after learning about his threats to take the offensive staff with him to LSU, should he not receive approval to coach in the playoff.
Staff Changes and Contract Details
Among the staff members expected to join Kiffin at LSU are offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr., wide receivers coach George McDonald, general manager Billy Glasscock, senior associate AD for football operations Thaddeus Rivers, and strength coach Nick Savage. Weis has been permitted to remain as Mississippi’s offensive coordinator for the College Football Playoff.
- Mississippi’s current record: 11-1
- College Football Playoff ranking: No. 6
- Kiffin’s contract with LSU: 7 years, $91 million
- LSU’s record prior to Kiffin’s arrival: 7-5
- Head coach fired: Brian Kelly on October 26
The final College Football Playoff rankings will be announced on Sunday, post-conference championship weekend, deciding the Rebels’ path forward.
