Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Lane Kiffin

Public opinion and media debates around Lane Kiffin—discover key moments of controversy.

Lane Kiffin is an American football coach, currently the head coach at Ole Miss. He gained prominence through assistant coaching roles at USC before becoming the head coach of the Oakland Raiders and later head coach at the University of Tennessee, and USC again. Kiffin's career has been marked by both successes and controversies, solidifying his reputation as a notable figure in college and professional football.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2005: USC Wins Vacated

In 2005, Lane Kiffin helped guide USC to a 23-3 record; however, in June 2010, the NCAA retroactively declared Reggie Bush ineligible for the entire 2005 season, and forced USC to vacate all of its 2005 wins.

January 25, 2008: Davis Tries to Force Resignation

On January 25, 2008, it was reported that Al Davis, the Raiders' owner, tried to force Lane Kiffin to resign after his first season ended with a 4–12 record, but Kiffin refused.

September 15, 2008: Davis Unhappy With Kiffin

On September 15, 2008, it was reported that Al Davis was unhappy with Lane Kiffin and intended to fire him.

September 30, 2008: Kiffin Fired by Raiders

On September 30, 2008, Lane Kiffin was fired by Al Davis over the telephone, who called Kiffin a "flat-out liar".

December 15, 2008: Cable Lashes out at Kiffin

On December 15, 2008, Raiders head coach Tom Cable criticized Lane Kiffin for hiring one of his assistants, James Cregg, with two weeks remaining in the NFL season, calling the timing "wrong in the business of coaching."

February 5, 2009: Accusations Against Urban Meyer

On February 5, 2009, Lane Kiffin accused Urban Meyer, then head coach of the Florida Gators, of violating NCAA recruiting rules.

June 2010: NCAA Imposes Sanctions on USC Football Program

In June 2010, the NCAA imposed sanctions against the USC football program due to a "lack of institutional control" following a four-year investigation into Reggie Bush's acceptance of financial benefits. The sanctions included a two-year postseason ban, the loss of 30 scholarships over three years, and the vacating of all wins in which Bush participated as an ineligible player.

June 2010: NCAA Declares Bush Ineligible

In June 2010, the NCAA retroactively declared Reggie Bush ineligible for the entire 2005 season, and forced USC to vacate all of its 2005 wins.

November 15, 2010: Arbitrator Rules in Favor of Davis

On November 15, 2010, an arbitrator ruled that Al Davis did have cause to fire Lane Kiffin, settling the grievance Kiffin filed against the Raiders.

2010: Riots at University of Tennessee

In 2010, after Kiffin's departure for USC, hundreds of students rioted on campus at the University of Tennessee.

May 26, 2011: NCAA Upholds Sanctions Against USC

On May 26, 2011, the NCAA's Appeals Committee upheld sanctions against USC, preventing the football team from participating in the Pac-12 Football Championship Game and any bowl game during the 2011-12 season.

2012: Kiffin Resigns from USA Today Coaches' Poll

In 2012, Lane Kiffin resigned from the USA Today Coaches' Poll amidst controversy over his preseason selection of USC as No. 1. The Trojans finished the season with a 7–6 record and were unranked after starting the season ranked #1.