Ole Miss' Lane Kiffin linked to 'The Swamp' as latest rumors swirl

Ole Miss’ Lane Kiffin linked to ‘The Swamp’ as latest rumors swirl originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Lane Kiffin’s name is once again dominating the college football coaching carousel. And Florida appears to be his strongest option.

According to The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman, industry sources believe the Gators have zeroed in on Kiffin as their preferred candidate, even as LSU is expected to make its own aggressive push.

Ole Miss remains firmly in the playoff hunt with a coach whose name seems permanently attached to every major vacancy in the sport. A nice place to be for Kiffin, who has spent his career bouncing around while chasing success in both the NFL and college ranks.

In 2022, Kiffin took over at Ole Miss over Auburn, who are currently in the midst of a second coaching turnover in “The Plains”. Since then, he has delivered a 30-6 record and consecutive 10-win seasons, elevating the program into the national spotlight. But with the Rebels hosting Florida this week, speculation about Kiffin’s future has ramped up.

Feldman reports that Ole Miss has “been willing to say yes to just about anything Kiffin asks for,” suggesting that the decision will rest entirely with him.

Florida’s brand appeal is considerable larger with more resources available. Outside of Kiffin, the Gators’ search includes Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz and former Penn State coach James Franklin. But Kiffin’s SEC experience and offensive expertise has been viewed as an ideal fit.

The Rebels’ bye week after Saturday’s matchup with Florida could create a window for contract discussions. Whether Kiffin stays or departs, his future is once again center stage as Playoff stakes are high.