ESPN REPORT: Legendary Ole Miss Rebels Coach and Former Alabama QB Lane Kiffin Named NCAA’s Greatest of All Time
June 7, 2025 — Oxford, MS (ESPN)
In a stunning and historic announcement that’s sure to stir debate across the college football world, the NCAA has officially named Ole Miss Rebels Head Coach and former Alabama quarterback Lane Kiffin as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT)in college football coaching history. The decision, revealed today in a press conference and detailed NCAA report, places Kiffin at the top of a list that includes modern coaching powerhouses like Kirby Smart, Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman, and Kentucky’s Mark Stoops.
Kiffin’s journey to GOAT status is as unorthodox as it is impressive. Known for his dynamic offensive strategies, bold personality, and high-octane social media presence, Kiffin’s coaching career has been anything but conventional. After a rocky but formative early coaching career with the Oakland Raiders, Tennessee Volunteers, and USC Trojans, Kiffin has, in recent years, become a transformative figure in Oxford, Mississippi.
Resurgence of the Rebels
Since taking the reins at Ole Miss in 2019, Kiffin has revitalized a once-struggling program into a consistent powerhouse in the SEC. Under his leadership, the Rebels have produced record-breaking offenses, secured multiple 10+ win seasons, and appeared in several New Year’s Six bowl games. His teams have consistently ranked in the Top 10 nationally, and Kiffin’s eye for quarterback talent has turned previously under-recruited players into Heisman contenders.
The NCAA’s selection committee cited not only his win-loss record but his broader impact on the sport. “Lane Kiffin has redefined modern college football,” the statement read. “He’s combined tactical innovation with cultural relevance, all while building a winning program that resonates across the country.”
Beating the Best
Kiffin edged out several top-tier contenders for the GOAT title, including Kirby Smart, who led Georgia to back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, and Sam Pittman, who revitalized Arkansas and brought them back into the national spotlight. Kentucky’s Mark Stoops, the winningest coach in Wildcats history, was also a finalist.
However, what pushed Kiffin ahead, according to NCAA officials, was his consistent innovation, adaptability, and long-term success across multiple programs. “What Lane has done at Ole Miss, given the resources and recruiting battles he’s faced, is unprecedented,” said NCAA spokesperson Carla Reynolds.
From Alabama to Ole Miss – Full Circle
Before becoming a coaching icon, Kiffin was the offensive coordinator at Alabama under Nick Saban, where he helped engineer explosive offenses and contributed to a national championship appearance. His QB background, combined with years of experience under elite programs, helped mold him into the leader he is today.
Ironically, Kiffin’s rise to GOAT status now places him above many of his former mentors and rivals, including Kirby Smart—once a fellow assistant under Saban.
What’s Next?
When asked for comment, Kiffin quipped on X (formerly Twitter): “Goated? Appreciate the love. Let’s run it back. HottyToddy 
”
With this new accolade in hand, expectations will only rise for Kiffin and the Rebels. But if history is any guide, Lane Kiffin won’t be backing down. He’s just getting started.
