Paul Finebaum drew comparisons between Nick Saban and Lane Kiffin while addressing recent coaching rumors, noting how both share an intense competitive drive and relentless pursuit of excellence. Finebaum suggested that, like Saban, Kiffin’s ambition and adaptability could eventually elevate him into the conversation among college football’s elite coaches.

Lane Kiffin has quickly become one of the hottest names in college football’s coaching carousel. With multiple major programs pursuing him most notably Florida and LSU his success at Ole Miss has drawn national attention. As speculation grows about his future, Ole Miss is reportedly preparing to make a strong push to keep him in Oxford.

ESPN’s Paul Finebaum weighed in on the situation, drawing an intriguing comparison between Kiffin and his former mentor, Nick Saban. Finebaum noted that both coaches have a commanding presence within their programs the kind that makes people tread lightly around them. He suggested that Kiffin’s growing influence at Ole Miss has created a culture similar to what Saban built at Alabama, where staff and fans alike operate with a mix of respect and fear.

“Right now, everyone in Oxford is saying, ‘We don’t bother Lane,’” Finebaum said. “They’re afraid of Lane. It’s a little bit Saban-esque. They won’t be afraid of him anywhere else.” His comments highlight how Kiffin has reached a new level of authority and control, something that often comes with long-term success and strong leadership. Like Saban, Kiffin has managed to build an environment where his personality drives the program’s identity.

Still, Finebaum cautioned that Kiffin’s growing power doesn’t mean he’s immune to outside interest. “Don’t believe that Lane is not considering these jobs,” he said, suggesting that Kiffin’s competitive nature and desire for new challenges could make him open to other opportunities. Known for his unpredictable career moves, Kiffin has never shied away from exploring what’s next, especially when big programs come calling.

Finebaum added that Kiffin’s awareness of media narratives and public perception often plays a role in how he navigates such situations. “We know Lane. He’s probably watching this right now, going, ‘I wonder what they’re saying about me right now,’” Finebaum joked. That self-awareness, combined with his confidence, has made Kiffin one of the most talked-about figures in college football someone who understands how to keep his name relevant.

As rumors continue to swirl, Kiffin remains at the center of the national conversation. Whether he stays at Ole Miss or takes on a new challenge elsewhere, his combination of offensive brilliance, charisma, and fearlessness makes him one of the most intriguing coaches in the game today. Finebaum’s comparison to Saban underscores just how far Kiffin has come from an ambitious young assistant to one of the sport’s most influential leaders.

“I can’t tell you what he’s going to do, but it’s just a matter [of time]. I mean, Auburn came this close to getting him three years ago. The family finally said don’t go, but that’s changed now. I think Lane has another move in him. I just don’t know when it is or where it is, but it’s coming.”