Ole Miss Rebels head coach Lane Kiffin has come a long way since his days learning under Nick Saban in 2014. Over the years, he’s dedicated himself to evolving as a coach, refining his strategies, and embracing the grind of college football.
In a recent Twitter post, Kiffin offered fans a rare peek into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing that his goal isn’t perfection but relentless improvement.
Lane Kiffin Tries to Motivate Fans With His Mindset
Over the years, Kiffin has turned the NCAA transfer portal into his personal chessboard, making strategic moves that have reshaped the Rebels’ roster year after year. His expertise in the portal has paid off in a big way in recent seasons, as Ole Miss is poised to have its largest NFL Draft class since 1962.
Kiffin recently chimed in on an inspiring message from Delta State University Hall of Famer Randy Grierson, proving once again that his coaching philosophy extends beyond the X’s and O’s.
In his post on X, Grierson emphasized the value of self-improvement and persistence, urging people not to lose faith just because success doesn’t come overnight.
“No matter how many mistakes you make or how slow you progress, you are still way ahead of everyone who isn’t trying,” Grierson wrote.
“Progress not perfection. Have an amazing day everyone,” Kiffin added on to the inspirational quote.
Progress not perfection. Have an amazing day everyone. https://t.co/obEKg59joq
— Lane Kiffin (@Lane_Kiffin) February 18, 2025
Kiffin’s social media antics are well-documented, and his rivalry with Auburn’s Hugh Freeze goes beyond the football field, straight to their fishing rods. The two coaches have turned their shared hobby into a playful competition, always looking to one-up each other.
This time, though, Kiffin might have the upper hand. He proudly showed off his latest trophy catch on Instagram, even tagging Freeze with a challenge.
College Football Athlete Praises Kiffin for ‘Saving (His) Life’
Kiffin isn’t just about motivational tweets. He lives by his words.
Former FAU linebacker Chase Lasater recently shared a powerful story about Kiffin’s impact on his life during an appearance on “Cohn’s Cadence” with former FAU QB Luke Cohn on Feb. 18.
Lasater, once a highly touted high school prospect at 6’2″ and 236 pounds, was a true dual-threat. He was a linebacker with the power and versatility to play fullback. But when his football future seemed uncertain, it was Kiffin who threw him a lifeline when he needed it most.
“My first real, legitimate offer was Michigan,” Lasater recalled after getting a 102 rating at Nike’s opening combine. “Jim Harbaugh… man, he didn’t even shake my hand. He grabbed the back of my neck to wrestle me because he heard I was a wrestler.”
Lasater even had an offer from the Auburn Tigers, but his path took an unexpected turn. Things didn’t go as planned, and mistakes started creeping in.
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“I didn’t make the right decisions… wasn’t the smartest at the time. I was young… was dumb,” he added. He didn’t take up the opportunities at the right time, and he ended up losing on all of them. That’s when Kiffin came into the picture for the young prospect.
“Lane Kiffin ended up saving my life, Saved me, man, he took me in and got me to FAU.” He was filled with gratitude for the head coach and even added, “Man, shout out to Lane Kiffin. Good man.”
Kiffin’s words aren’t just for show. They reflect the way he coaches, mentors, and gives second chances to players who need them the most.
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