Context:

Lane Kiffin has decided to leave Ole Miss to become the head coach at LSU, marking a significant transition shortly after leading the Rebels to their first College Football Playoff berth and setting a program record with 11 wins. Despite his desire to coach Ole Miss in the CFP, he was denied permission by athletic director Keith Carter. Defensive coordinator Pete Golding will take over as head coach to guide the team through the playoffs. Kiffin's new role at LSU comes with a lucrative seven-year deal, enhancing the competitive landscape as he seeks to capitalize on LSU's recent successes. This change signals a new chapter for both programs as they navigate the implications of Kiffin's departure and Golding's promotion.

Dive Deeper:

• Kiffin's decision followed Ole Miss' victory in the Egg Bowl, which secured a playoff spot. This will be his last game with the Rebels, as he expressed his regret over not being able to lead them in the CFP.

• Pete Golding, who has been with Ole Miss as defensive coordinator, will now serve as the permanent head coach following a recent contract extension that made him one of the highest-paid assistants in the SEC.

• The coaching change arose after Kiffin's discussions with Ole Miss leadership about his future, where a critical point was his wish to coach the team during the playoffs, which was ultimately denied.

• Reports indicated that LSU offered Kiffin a seven-year contract worth approximately $100 million, with the appeal of coaching at a program with a strong history of success playing a significant role in his decision.

• Since Kiffin's arrival in 2020, Ole Miss has improved dramatically, making bowl games each season and reversing a trend where they missed bowls for four consecutive years prior.

• Kiffin's contract with Ole Miss included a $4 million buyout if he left before the end of 2025, highlighting the financial implications of his departure for both parties.