Lane Kiffin has disclosed that Nick Saban urged him to take the LSU head coaching role, stating he would ‘always regret it’ if he passed up the opportunity. Kiffin emphasized that Saban remarked, ‘It’s the best job in America.’ This advice played a pivotal role in Kiffin’s decision to leave Ole Miss for the Baton Rouge job.

Saban previously secured a national title with LSU before his time at Alabama, where he achieved remarkable success with six national championships. Kiffin served under Saban as the offensive coordinator from 2014 to 2016. In reflecting on the moment he considered the LSU position, Kiffin noted that Saban’s counsel significantly influenced his final decision.

“You’ll always regret, if you don’t go to LSU. It’s the best job in America.”
Nick Saban to Lane Kiffin during LSU’s pursuit to hire Kiffin.

Following Kiffin’s exit from Ole Miss, he was unable to coach the team during the postseason due to restrictions set by the athletic director. Meanwhile, LSU sought Kiffin after parting ways with Brian Kelly, making the opportunity more appealing.

Kiffin expressed respect for Saban’s wisdom and acknowledged that it ultimately shaped his transition into this new chapter of his coaching career.