Lane Kiffin Kirby Smart Alabama Rivalry Heats Up Before SEC Showdown

Ahead of a major SEC clash, a playful coaching rivalry has resurfaced. The story involves Lane Kiffin and Kirby Smart from their days on Nick Saban’s Alabama staff. Their old dynamic is getting new attention before their Top 10 matchup this weekend.

Nick Saban himself confirmed the long-standing anecdotes. He described the contrasting personalities of his former coordinators in a recent television appearance.

Saban Compares His Former Assistants to Schoolchildren

According to Saban, staff meetings were a study in contrasts. He likened Kiffin to a first-grader who could not stop talking in class. In contrast, Smart was the disciplined student who always followed the rules. This characterization came from Saban’s weekly spot on The Pat McAfee Show.

The two coaches sat beside each other for years. Despite their different approaches, Saban noted they were good friends. He said they maintain that friendship and mutual respect today.

Smart Recalls Kiffin’s “Disrespectful” Whispering

Kirby Smart shared his own perspective on the meetings. He revealed he often asked Kiffin to stop whispering to him while Saban was speaking. Smart explained he found the behavior disrespectful to their boss. This recollection was shared by Smart during a live broadcast from the Georgia campus.

Kiffin seemed entirely unbothered by the reprimands. Smart joked that Kiffin simply did not care about the perceived disrespect. He suggested this is why Kiffin now enjoys poking fun at him publicly.

The long-running professional relationship between these two coaches adds a compelling layer to this high-stakes game. Their shared history at Alabama ensures this SEC rivalry remains deeply personal and highly competitive.

Thought you’d like to know

How long did Lane Kiffin and Kirby Smart work together at Alabama?

They were on the Alabama staff together for three seasons. Kirby Smart was the defensive coordinator from 2008-2015. Lane Kiffin served as offensive coordinator from 2014 to 2016.

Did Alabama win a national championship with Kiffin and Smart?

Yes, the duo helped lead Alabama to the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship. Their coordinated efforts were instrumental in the team’s success that season, according to reports from ESPN.

What is the recent history between Ole Miss and Georgia?

Ole Miss defeated Georgia 28-10 in their last meeting during the 2023 season. This upcoming game is a highly anticipated rematch with significant SEC championship implications.

Why is this year’s Ole Miss vs. Georgia game so significant?

Both teams are ranked in the Top 10, amplifying the stakes. The outcome will heavily influence the SEC standings and the College Football Playoff picture, as noted by CBS Sports.

What did Nick Saban say about their friendship?

Saban confirmed that despite their different personalities, Smart and Kiffin were and remain good friends. He mentioned they frequently text each other and maintain a strong mutual respect.