With LSU preparing a blockbuster offer for Lane Kiffin, ESPN’s Paul Finebaum believes the Ole Miss coach has already inflicted damage, regardless of what he decides.
Finebaum appeared on McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning and said Kiffin’s prolonged silence and public flirtation with LSU has put the Rebels in an unnecessarily embarrassing position.
“If he ends up staying at Ole Miss, I think he has done that program a disservice by humiliating them in the process,” Finebaum said.
"If he ends up staying at Ole Miss, I think he has done that program a disservice by humiliating them in the process."@finebaum sounds off on @OleMissFB head coach Lane Kiffin and how he's handling his coaching future in Oxford https://t.co/wkYk2MbjIO pic.twitter.com/TSdUi1S5Xd
— McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning (@macandcube) November 24, 2025
According to Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, LSU has discussed a seven-year deal worth at least $90 million, plus more than $25 million annually in NIL roster-investment funds. The unprecedented package would vault Kiffin into the sport’s highest-paid tier, while giving him one of college football’s most aggressive roster budgets.
Ole Miss is unlikely to match LSU’s NIL commitment, raising questions about how long the Rebels can realistically compete in the sport’s new financial landscape. Especially without Kiffin being at the controls. Thus why his decision is vital to the Rebels' success.
The latest developments coincide with an agreement between Kiffin and Ole Miss leaders to delay any public announcement on his future until after the Nov. 29 Egg Bowl.
More college football news:
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- 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