The Lane Kiffin era is in full swing at LSU, with the 2026 roster set and spring practices underway. Kiffin's first task upon arriving in Baton Rouge was to secure the recruiting class that Brian Kelly had assembled. Now, he’s focused on building his own legacy as the Tigers gear up for the 2027 recruiting cycle.
Louisiana's rich talent pool is one of the key reasons Kiffin took the LSU job. The state is a hotbed for top-tier recruits, offering Kiffin a golden opportunity to land 5-star talents by focusing on in-state players. One such player, Jayden Miles, is set to be a focal point in a heated recruiting battle.
The Battle for Jayden Miles
Baton Rouge native Jayden Miles has narrowed his college choices to six schools: LSU, Kentucky, Auburn, Ohio State, Florida State, and Texas Tech. This announcement sets the stage for a fierce competition for the talented running back.
Standing at 6’2” and 210 pounds, Miles is ranked as the No. 2 running back in Louisiana and the 391st player nationally, according to Rivals. His decision will be pivotal for the Tigers, especially since Ole Miss, where former LSU running backs coach Frank Wilson now works, didn't make his list. Wilson was instrumental in recruiting Miles and other running backs in this class.
Kevin Smith, who followed Kiffin to LSU, now faces the challenge of keeping these talented players in Louisiana. With Miles being a Baton Rouge native, retaining him is crucial for the Tigers. Upcoming visits will play a significant role in this recruiting saga, as LSU aims to keep this local star close to home.