Lane Kiffin Is Spitting Facts That Ole Miss Should Be In The Playoffs Over Alabama, And He’s Absolutely Right

The College Football Playoff (CFP) selection process has always been a hotbed of debate, and this season is no exception. Lane Kiffin, the outspoken and charismatic head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels, recently made waves by arguing that his team deserves a playoff spot over perennial powerhouse Alabama. It’s not just talk—Kiffin has a point, and here’s why his argument holds water.

Head-to-Head Comparison

The most glaring counterpoint to Alabama’s playoff candidacy is their head-to-head win over Ole Miss earlier this season. While this result is undeniably a feather in the Crimson Tide’s cap, the Playoff committee emphasizes “recency bias”—a preference for how teams perform down the stretch.

Ole Miss has surged late in the season, showcasing an explosive offense and a vastly improved defense. Alabama, on the other hand, has had moments of inconsistency, scraping by against lesser opponents like Auburn in the Iron Bowl. Kiffin’s argument that momentum matters in playoff selection aligns with the committee’s precedent.

Strength of Schedule

Both teams faced grueling schedules in the SEC, but Ole Miss arguably faced tougher tests. The Rebels had to contend with the likes of LSU, Georgia, and Texas A&M—all teams with elite talent and coaching. Alabama’s non-conference schedule, while strong with a win over Texas, did not include Georgia, giving Ole Miss the edge in overall difficulty.

Moreover, Ole Miss boasts quality wins that bolster its resume. Kiffin’s team has delivered in high-pressure moments, showcasing a resilience that epitomizes a playoff-caliber program.

Offensive Firepower

Ole Miss is home to one of the nation’s most prolific offenses. Behind the stellar play of quarterback Jaxson Dart and a dynamic rushing attack led by Quinshon Judkins, the Rebels have been an offensive juggernaut. This unit has consistently outperformed Alabama’s more conservative and, at times, inconsistent offense under Jalen Milroe.

Playoff football often rewards teams with explosive playmakers, and Ole Miss fits that bill perfectly. Their ability to score quickly and often makes them a dangerous opponent for any team in the CFP.

The “Eye Test”

Kiffin’s Rebels have consistently passed the “eye test,” a subjective yet critical component of CFP deliberations. Ole Miss plays with flair and efficiency, presenting a product that looks playoff-ready. Alabama’s narrow escapes, including the heart-stopping final play against Auburn, have raised doubts about their ability to dominate top-tier competition.

The Lane Kiffin Factor

Let’s not overlook the Lane Kiffin effect. The former Alabama offensive coordinator has transformed Ole Miss into a legitimate contender. His innovative offensive schemes and fearless decision-making make him one of the most exciting coaches in college football. Kiffin’s presence would bring intrigue and electricity to the Playoff, an undeniable boost for the sport.

Conclusion

While Alabama’s playoff pedigree is undeniable, Lane Kiffin’s argument for Ole Miss is compelling. The Rebels have faced tougher challenges, demonstrated remarkable growth, and possess the firepower needed to compete at the highest level. In a world where the CFP committee seeks the “best four teams,” Ole Miss deserves serious consideration.

Kiffin may be polarizing, but in this instance, he’s absolutely right: the Rebels have earned their shot at the College Football Playoff. If the committee truly values performance, excitement, and competition, they should look no further than Oxford.