LSU will make an aggressive run at Lane Kiffin as the Tigers search for Brian Kelly’s replacement.
The Tigers have targeted the Ole Miss coach as their top choice for one of college football’s biggest openings, according to On3’s Pete Nakos.
Kelly was fired Oct. 26 during his fourth season in Baton Rouge.
The move triggered a search that’s drawn interest from coaches across the country. Nakos reports LSU’s focus has settled on Kiffin, who’s guided Ole Miss to a 10-1 record this season.
The Rebels coach also delivered back-to-back seasons with 10 or more wins in 2023 and 2024. His offensive system and proven success in the SEC made him the clear first choice for athletic director Verge Ausberry and the search committee.
Tigers officials plan to move quickly once the regular season ends.
Eli Drinkwitz has emerged as the leading backup option if Kiffin stays at Ole Miss or pursues other opportunities. The Missouri coach owns a 56-28 career record and produced consecutive double-digit win seasons with the Tigers.
He earned SEC Coach of the Year honors in 2023.
LSU wants a coach who can recruit at an elite level and bring an explosive offensive identity to Baton Rouge. Kiffin checks both boxes after transforming Ole Miss into a consistent SEC contender.
Whether the Tigers can convince him to leave Oxford remains the biggest question in this coaching search.
