In a surprising postseason twist, offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. Is heading back to Ole Miss for the College Football Playoff, despite initially boarding one of Lane Kiffin’s LSU-bound planes over the weekend.
The Rebels announced Tuesday that Weis will rejoin the program for its CFP run after briefly appearing to follow Kiffin to Baton Rouge.
Weis’ decision marks a rare reversal in a coaching carousel filled with abrupt moves and tense departures.
The longtime Kiffin assistant had been expected to join LSU’s staff, continuing a partnership that began at Alabama in 2015 and stretched through FAU and later to Oxford in 2022. He’ll return to the Rebels as they prepare for their first appearance in the 12-team playoff.
Locked in for the @CFBPlayoff 🔒 pic.twitter.com/0WBe7fbYTF
— Ole Miss Football (@OleMissFB) December 2, 2025
Kiffin addressed the pivot in a statement, saying the updated CFP rankings prompted further discussion with LSU about allowing Weis to return.
“I’ve already made the committee aware of this,” Kiffin said via On3. “I’m hopeful this decision will allow Ole Miss to receive the highest ranking possible because these great players are very deserving of that.”
With Kiffin now at LSU and Pete Golding elevated to permanent head coach, Ole Miss faces an offseason of staff restructuring. Golding will eventually need to assemble a full offensive staff, but Weis’ presence offers continuity during a critical stretch.
Ole Miss finished 11-1 and is considered a lock for the postseason field. Where the Rebels ultimately land in Sunday’s rankings remains unclear.
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