Lane Kiffin”s recent revelation that he was mimicking Ed Orgeron“s voice while passing by Tiger Stadium sent a ripple of shock through the LSU fan base. Many supporters reacted negatively, recalling the backlash when Brian Kelly attempted to adopt a Southern accent. However, Kiffin appeared relaxed and confident as he shared this anecdote during his introductory press conference, suggesting he could quickly adapt to the LSU culture.
As the Kiffin era officially begins at LSU, it is evident that while there are no guarantees with a coaching change, excitement is returning to the program. The prospects of Kiffin revitalizing the team and making football enjoyable again are promising. Fans can anticipate a vibrant purple and gold atmosphere both on the field and in the stands, reminiscent of the exhilarating tailgating experiences at LSU.
Kiffin has a legacy of mischief and a playful approach to the game that could breathe new life into LSU. Early in his career, he often frustrated the late SEC commissioner Mike Slive with his antics, earning him the nickname “Little Lord Lane Kiffin.” Despite some maturity over the years, he has maintained a charmingly rebellious spirit, which could resonate well with the passionate LSU fan base.
Whether he orchestrates intricate game plans or engages in light-hearted banter with rival coaches, Kiffin seems to believe that football should be enjoyable. While it”s not a strict requirement for success—look at how Nick Saban managed to win without being a social butterfly—there”s a certain joy that Les Miles exemplified during his championship run in 2007, famously tossing Mardi Gras beads after victories.
The struggle of the previous season, marked by a lackluster offense, has left fans yearning for improvement. LSU”s offense was not only painful to watch but also made history by failing to score more than 27 points against any FBS opponent throughout the season. In stark contrast, Kiffin”s Ole Miss teams averaged 37.5 points per game and led the SEC in total offense four times during his tenure.
Kiffin”s approach promises a refreshing change for LSU. “We don”t just think outside the box,” he articulated, “we create a new box. We”re always looking for new ideas, figuring things out.” This philosophy could be just what LSU needs to restore its reputation as a powerhouse in college football.
As Kiffin settles into his role, he is presented with an opportunity to start building a fun and exciting football program that fans can rally behind.
