Ole Miss football coach Lane Kiffin has made headlines once again, this time for his lighthearted comments toward ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum. Kiffin has frequently joked about Finebaum's earlier remarks, which some believe contributed to his firing from USC over a decade ago. During his appearance on Finebaum's show, Kiffin humorously expressed gratitude, saying, "If you hadn’t gotten me fired at USC I wouldn’t have ever worked for coach Saban or beaten Georgia, so thanks forthat."
This amusing exchange highlights the unique rivalry between Kiffin and Finebaum—a rivalry rooted more in banter and friendship than animosity. Their playful back-and-forth has become something of folklore among college football fans, illustrating how personalities can clash and yet transform over time.
Much of this banter dates back to 2013, when Finebaum famously dubbed Kiffin “the Miley Cyrus of college football,” criticizing Kiffin’s coaching prowess and questioning his career moves. Finebaum remarked at the time, "How did someone like Lane Kiffin ever get these jobs?" He suggested Kiffin was riding on his father Monte’s coattails, saying he had "very little talent," yet managed to stay in the spotlight.
Despite the stinging commentary, Kiffin has consistently acknowledged the role Finebaum played throughout his career, using their dynamic to fuel personal growth. Reflecting on their history, Kiffin joked, “It makes you overcome things. When you got me fired at USC, we’ve saidthat before. Now, I’m saying I wouldn’t have been here and to have the Georgia win if you hadn’t gotten me fired.”
After Kiffin's recent upset victory over the Georgia Bulldogs, which significantly boosted Ole Miss's chances for the College Football Playoff, these comments resonate even more. The Rebels are now positioned 11th in the Playoff rankings, with eyes set on potential postseason glory.
Many fans recall the tense moments from Kiffin's tenure at USC. After Finebaum’s pointed comments, Kiffin was relieved of his duties, leading him on the path to coaching stints at Alabama and Florida Atlantic before landing at Ole Miss. “I’m grateful to you Paul. Thanks for the Miley Cyrus comment,” he quipped, eliciting laughter from Finebaum, who responded positively to Kiffin’s success.
Finebaum himself seemed to relish Kiffin’s mock praise. He congratulated Kiffin for the Georgia win and said, “Thank you coach for always rememberingthat. And congratulations again. We’re all very happy for you.”
The relationship between Kiffin and Finebaum serves as an example of how public figures can evolve, often using moments of adversity as stepping stones for greater achievements. Their story underlines the competitive nature of college football, where the lines between rivalry, friendship, and humor are continuously blurred.
Kiffin's career may very well be defined by his adaptability and willingness to emerge stronger from setbacks. With each jab and joke shared with Finebaum, Kiffin seems to embrace his past and the tumultuous ride he's had through college football coaching. His lighthearted acknowledgment of Finebaum reflects not only on their peculiar relationship but also on the highs and lows of being under the bright lights of college football.
The SEC's media presence continues to grow, and the Kiffin-Finebaum exchanges remain a fan-favorite. College football often brings its share of serious commentary, but these moments of levity invite fans to reflect on the sport’s lighter side. It reminds fans and commentators alike of the human element behind the glamorous façade of college sports.
For fans and followers of the SEC, the question remains: Where will this amusing rivalry take them next? With more games on the horizon, there’s no doubt Kiffin and Finebaum will find fresh material for their banter, ensuring fans stay entertained throughout the season. ”
