Have That Game Marked' -- Ole Miss Legend Eli Manning Makes Blunt Statement on Lane Kiffin Return After $91M LSU Move

Ole Miss Legend Eli Manning Makes Blunt Statement on Lane Kiffin Return After $91M LSU Move—LSU is entering the 2026 college football season with optimism centered on Lane Kiffin’s arrival from Ole Miss on a seven-year, $91 million contract. As LSU prepares for fall camp, Ole Miss legend Eli Manning addressed Kiffin’s move and the rivalry atmosphere it will create. Manning said he is thankful for Kiffin’s work building Ole Miss and expects fans to remember “that game” when LSU comes to town. Kiffin previously said his decision followed “a lot of prayer” and time with family, and he framed the departure as a new start while emphasizing he will “forever cherish” his six years at Ole Miss and urge the program to achieve its mission in Oxford. Defensive coordinator Pete Golding remains in charge at Ole Miss. Kiffin’s return is set for September 19, when LSU visits Vaught-Hemingway Stadium with Kiffin on the visitors’ sideline.