If Lane Kiffin Bolts Oxford, Could the Cfp Committee Ding Ole Miss … or Leave Them Out of the Playoff Altogether?

Lane Kiffin’s Future and Ole Miss’ Playoff Prospects

In the ongoing negotiations between Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss over his future, Kiffin holds a strategic card that hasn’t been widely discussed. According to the College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee protocols, one of the factors they are supposed to consider when selecting teams is “other relevant factors such as unavailability of key players and coaches that may have affected a team’s performance during the season or likely will affect its postseason performance.” This clause could prove pivotal if Kiffin were to leave before the playoffs.

The question now is whether the CFP committee would use this protocol as leverage against Ole Miss, potentially snubbing them even with an 11-1 record. The timing of such a decision is critical, given that Kiffin has publicly flirted with both LSU and Florida, creating uncertainty for his future.

Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin’s intentions remain unclear, but the athletic department needs answers soon to avoid a messy situation.

With the opening of the transfer portal just days away on January 2nd, Ole Miss cannot afford to wait indefinitely. The pressure is mounting as Kiffin seems reluctant to make a decision promptly.

Kiffin’s Urgency vs. Rebellion

Despite his public appearances, Kiffin’s demeanor and uncharacteristic chipperness during the Pat McAfee Show hint at a more complex internal struggle. His reluctance to address rumors about family visits to Baton Rouge and Gainesville raises questions about his true intentions.

The urgency to make a decision is evident, but Ole Miss must balance this with the potential risks of rushing into a new coaching situation. Kiffin’s departure could lead to an exodus of key players without adequate replacements, potentially setting the team back years.

CFP Committee’s Considerations

The CFP committee’s protocols might indeed be invoked if Kiffin leaves before the playoffs. While this scenario seems far-fetched at first glance, it is not unprecedented. In 2023, Florida State, an otherwise unbeaten team, was left out of the playoff despite a strong performance due to quarterback Jordan Travis’ injury.

Similarly, the absence of Kiffin could alter Ole Miss’ dynamic significantly.

His deep involvement in play calling and game planning ensures his presence has tangible impacts on the team’s performance. The committee would logically consider whether his departure could fundamentally change how they view Ole Miss as a playoff contender.

The Potential for Snubbing

While snubbing an 11-1 Ole Miss might seem harsh, it is not entirely out of the question given the current system and precedent. The committee’s focus on projections could tip the scales if they believe Kiffin’s absence would make a significant difference in the team’s overall performance.

The risk of such a scenario provides Ole Miss with leverage to force Kiffin into making a decision sooner rather than later. This situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining stability and the necessity for timely decisions in college football.