Lane Kiffin, LSU, and the Quarterback Search Heating Up as Transfer Portal Opens
Lane Kiffin didn’t crown himself the “Portal King” for nothing. His knack for plucking impact players from the transfer portal has been a driving force behind his rise at Ole Miss. Now, he’s set to bring that same magic to Baton Rouge-and he’ll need it, because LSU has a quarterback situation that demands immediate attention.
Right now, the Tigers have just two scholarship quarterbacks on the roster: Michael Van Buren and Colin Hurley. Both are young, both are talented-but if LSU wants to contend in the SEC and beyond, they’ll need more than raw potential.
They’ll need experience, composure, and someone who can step in and lead right away. That’s where the portal comes in.
The transfer portal officially opens on January 2, and Kiffin is expected to dive in headfirst. The list of available quarterbacks is already intriguing, and it’s only going to grow.
Among the top names to watch: Brendan Sorsby from Cincinnati, Dylan Raiola from Nebraska, DJ Lagway out of Florida, and Sam Leavitt from Arizona State. Each brings a different skill set, but all are capable of stepping into a high-pressure SEC environment and making an impact.
Sorsby showed flashes of brilliance at Cincinnati, Raiola was a big-name recruit with a high ceiling, Lagway has the kind of athleticism that can change games, and Leavitt has quietly developed into a reliable, efficient passer. Any one of them could be a fit for what Kiffin wants to build at LSU-a high-powered, explosive offense that can keep pace with the best in the country.
There’s also an interesting wrinkle involving Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss. He’s currently appealing to the NCAA for an extra year of eligibility after four seasons at Division II Ferris State.
If granted, he could be another name in the mix, though as of now, he’s not eligible for the 2026 season. Still, it’s a situation worth monitoring as Kiffin evaluates every possible option.
The bottom line? LSU’s quarterback room needs reinforcements, and Kiffin’s history suggests he won’t wait around to find them.
The “Portal King” built his brand on identifying talent, selling his vision, and turning transfers into stars. Now, he’s got a new challenge-and the stakes are just as high.
Messi Delivers MLS Cup to Inter Miami in Signature Style
While college football was dominating screens across the country last weekend, something special was unfolding in Florida. Lionel Messi-yes, that Messi-led Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup title with a 3-1 victory over Vancouver.
It’s not just another trophy. This is the trophy in American soccer. The MLS Cup is the crown jewel, and now it belongs to Inter Miami, thanks in large part to the Argentine legend who joined the club back in July 2023 after years of pursuit by co-owner David Beckham.
Sure, Inter Miami had already lifted the Leagues Cup with Messi, but this one hits differently. The MLS Cup is the culmination of a full season’s grind-travel, form, injuries, tactics-and Messi, even at this stage in his career, proved he’s still capable of carrying a team to glory.
What makes it even more compelling is how Messi didn’t just show up for a farewell tour. He came to compete, to win, and to leave a mark on American soccer. And now, with a championship in hand, he’s done just that.
No need to make sweeping declarations about MLS overtaking the NHL or MLB. That’s not the point.
The point is, one of the greatest to ever play the game came to the U.S., brought his brilliance with him, and helped deliver a title. That’s a moment worth appreciating.
The High-Stakes World of Michelin Stars-And New Orleans’ Place in It
There’s a fascinating new series streaming on Apple TV+ called “Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars,” and it offers a behind-the-scenes look at the relentless pursuit of one of the culinary world’s most elusive honors: the Michelin star.
For chefs and restaurateurs, this isn’t just about prestige-it’s about survival, growth, and in some cases, legacy. A single Michelin star can boost business by about 20 percent.
Two stars? That number jumps to 40 percent.
And if you’re lucky enough to earn the coveted three-star rating, you could see your business double overnight.
The show dives into the daily grind-meticulous prep, high-stakes service, and the pressure of knowing that one anonymous visit from a Michelin inspector could change everything.
New Orleans, a city already rich in food culture, has a few stars of its own. Emeril’s leads the way with a two-star rating, while St.
Germain and Zasu each hold one star. It’s a testament to the city’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, flavor with finesse.
Michelin stars aren’t handed out lightly. They’re earned through consistency, creativity, and execution at the highest level. And for the chefs chasing them, every plate matters.
From the quarterback carousel in the SEC to Messi’s championship moment in Miami, and the culinary arms race in New Orleans, this week reminds us that greatness-whether on the field, pitch, or plate-doesn’t happen by accident. It’s earned, one decision, one play, one dish at a time.