LSU Tigers football coach Lane Kiffin addressed the changing landscape of college football during an appearance on Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take” podcast. Kiffin argued that coaching has become easier in the era of Name, Image and Likeness deals and revenue sharing.
Kiffin’s record supports his claim.
The coach has posted a 50-18 record since the 2021 season. That’s when college football first allowed third-party payments to recruits.
“With NIL and the portal, there’s a lot of problems that have been created. I think with them getting paid, I don’t think that’s as challenging. I don’t think it’s as challenging to get guys to do things because we’re paying you. If you don’t want to do it, there’s a fine system, just like the NFL. I find it’s actually easier,” Kiffin said.
Kiffin explained his approach to managing paid players. He treats them like professionals because they’re receiving compensation.
“They kind of, in their mind, think they’re like pros now – which is good. That’s how we talk to them. So you’ve got high expectations. ‘Hey, we expect you do these things. We expect you to do these things in the weight room, in the film room, all these different things.’ If you want to be a normal student and not really do all those things, that’s fine. Go see the GM and give back half your money, if you want to do half the work. So that way, I think it’s a little bit easier that way. You bring them in, ‘Hey, this is what you need to do.’ And if you don’t, there’s a fine system for those things, but also, what’s going to happen at the end of the year? You’re going to get cut.”
High Expectations at LSU
Kiffin faces significant pressure in Baton Rouge. The Tigers expect immediate improvement after hiring him from Ole Miss.
His approach mirrors NFL team management. Players receive clear expectations about performance both on and off the field.
Kiffin’s NFL coaching experience helps him navigate player compensation issues.
At Ole Miss, he transformed the program using NIL and transfer portal strategies. The Rebels became competitive in the SEC under his leadership.
LSU’s $91 million investment in Kiffin reflects the program’s championship expectations. The Tigers haven’t won an SEC title since 2019.
The coach must prove his methods work at LSU. His success at Ole Miss provides a blueprint, but replicating that success in Louisiana presents new challenges.
