LSU head coach Lane Kiffin addressed his upcoming game against Ole Miss, his former team, emphasizing the importance of the players rather than the coaches. The matchup will feature the No. 7 LSU Tigers against the No. 8 Ole Miss Rebels, now led by Kiffin’s former defensive coordinator, Pete Golding. The spotlight, however, shines on Kiffin as he returns to face his previous team.
Kiffin acknowledged the unique situation of facing the team he once built while leading a new one. He expressed that the game’s focus should remain on player preparation and performance. “Pete’s not gonna tackle anybody; I’m not gonna throw any touchdowns,” Kiffin highlighted the roles outside the field action.
In preparation for their first SEC game, Kiffin redirected his players’ attention to their readiness, steering clear of the surrounding hype. He stated, “…And it won’t be about all the other stuff and all the noise and everything, it’ll be about how well did we practice, how well did we prepare, so how well did we play on game day going into a place that’s had a lot of success there.”
Praise was given to Ole Miss for holding the second-longest win streak nationally and having exceptional players. This includes standout quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and running back Kewan Lacy, who has already scored three touchdowns in two games. LSU features quarterback Sam Leavitt, who has amassed 574 yards and two touchdowns.
Early this season, both teams beat ACC opponents, with Ole Miss edging a 41-38 victory, and LSU overpowering Clemson, 51-10. Subsequent wins against unranked teams further demonstrate each team’s capabilities.
Kiffin previously switched to LSU during Ole Miss’s run to the CFP last season. Golding succeeded him, leading the Rebels during CFP matches while Kiffin supported from afar.
This season, LSU and Kiffin received scrutiny for attempting to sign players with NFL ties, eventually stepping back as the SEC considered action against the school.
Regardless of drama, the game remains paramount. LSU is slightly favored over Ole Miss, but Golding likely aims for a significant victory over his former colleague. The match kicks off on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 7:30 p.m. ET, televised on ABC.
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