The entire college football world is waiting on Lane Kiffin. And with every passing day, along with the rumors, family sightings and non-answers, the pressure for Ole Miss grows larger. As we all wait like Judge Smails in Caddyshack, a thought comes to mind about "Lane gate" or "As the World Turns in Mississippi."
Will Kiffin's decision break the internet? Many not for everyone, but is this not one of the biggest coaching announcement in a long time? We knew Nick Saban was a bit out the door, and good for him.
The Alabama legend is enjoying every bit of retirement and wouldn't want "student-paid-athlete" in the mix anyway. I guess parents just don't understand, right?
In all seriousness, this is a moment we'll look back on as a reflection point. What once felt like a familiar round of November speculation now stands on the brink of potentially shaping the College Football Playoff for Ole Miss.
If there's any reason why Kiffin is not the Rebels coach when the final CFP rankings are released on Dec. 7, buckle up for some drama. The outlook may force the committee to alter some projections.
Keep in mind, “unavailability of key players and coaches that may have affected a team’s performance during the season or likely will affect its postseason performance." It's a clause that could force Ole Miss' persistent "We need to know" to be "Okay, let's roll," as it should be.
Obviously, LSU or Florida, whichever Kiffin lands on, won't be in the Playoff. The Rebels have come this far with Kiffin, let him have his swan song in Oxford, if he's moving on. If he wins a national championship, Ole Miss' special season and his six-year chapter comes to a with a fairy tale ending.
The commitment era in college football is all but dead. And at this point, the coaches and players merely transactional.
Regardless if Kiffin will stay or leave, there are still players hitting the transfer portal after Ole Miss' final loss of the season. Why can't we treat coaches with the same business sense? Stop pretending Kiffin isn't chasing a better opportunity, even if it's in his own conference. If Ole Miss can't afford to keep him or if he doesn't want to stay, still finish out the season strong.
No one but Lane Kiffin himself can make the next move. Staying in Oxford means building a dynasty with a school who will go to war in the trenches with their coach. Going to LSU or Florida brings a pay day with high expectations and no guarantees.
Kiffin has said repeatedly that money will not dictate his choice. But timing might. With national signing day Dec. 3 and the transfer portal window opening Jan. 2, programs cannot afford weeks of limbo. A playoff run for Ole Miss would stretch well into January, complicating any decision coming down before the Egg Bowl.
More college football news:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Ole Miss reportedly gives Lane Kiffin an ultimatum as family visits Florida and LSU
- Virginia Tech reportedly funding roster near top of ACC for James Franklin
- Bill Belichick goes viral for awkward handshake after Wake Forest loss
- Texas state trooper reportedly relieved of duties after player exchange at Texas A&M