Lane Kiffin's six-year stint at Ole Miss came to a tumultuous end on Sunday. The former Rebels boss spurned Oxford for Baton Rouge, signing a seven-year, $84 million deal to coach SEC rival LSU effective immediately.
The nature of Kiffin's abrupt exit is all too familiar for the 50-year-old tactician. Widely regarded as one of football's finest minds, Kiffin has attracted plenty of admirers across his career. That has put him at odds with his employers at different points -- from the scorched earth sacking he endured at the hands of Al Davis and the Raiders in 2008 to his contentious decision to leave Tennessee for USC in 2010, Kiffin has lived on the edge.
Still, his latest pilgrimage might have taken the cake for his wackiest departure left. Kiffin endured his fair share of jeers as he walked on an Oxford tarmac before heading to his newest home. He also spoke with ESPN's Marty Smith briefly -- his first public comments since making the controversial move.
Here's what you need to know about Kiffin's thoughts on his high-profile exit.
MORE: How does Kiffin's departure impact Ole Miss' CFP outlook?
Lane Kiffin interview
Kiffin was interviewed by Smith right before boarding the plane to Baton Rouge. He begins by saying that it was a very challenging, and difficult day. Kiffin mentions that they went "through a lot last night" trying to "make the playoff run work." He says he totally respects the decision and he understands why he can't coach the Rebels through the playoffs. Kiffin wished the team the best of luck.
When asked what drew the decision out, Kiffin responded, "it was really difficult. This has been a really special place. Six years here." He brings up his dad's death and referred to his father's ability to impact people wherever he was coaching. Kiffin then said that he "prayed a lot, made a family decision, and have the chance to go and impact a whole new set of people."
Kiffin says that he was not permitted to attend the meeting with the team on Sunday afternoon and again said he understood it.
When asked why LSU was the right choice for him, he said, "I talked to some mentors, coach Carroll [Pete] and coach Saban [Nick], especially when coach Carroll said 'your dad would tell you to go, take the shot.'" Kiffin continued, "I always hated how we only gave one year in Tennessee and left, I really hated that feeling. I think we gave a lot to this program and to this city. It just became time, I talked to God and he told me it's time to take a new step."
Lane Kiffin interview on the tarmac on his way to Baton Rouge, leaving Ole Miss to coach LSU
— ❖ (@slipflipdip) November 30, 2025
It sounds like Pete Carroll encouraged Kiffin to leave, telling him: “Your dad would tell you to go man, take the shot”
Kiffin makes it sound like Saban encouraged the move as well pic.twitter.com/DBgg6hIIIN
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