Lane Kiffin Takes Over at LSU - and Hints at Bringing Star QB Trinidad Chambliss With Him
After weeks of speculation and a coaching search that felt more like a drama series than an athletic decision, LSU has landed its next head coach - and it’s a big one. Lane Kiffin, the ever-entertaining and offensively gifted mind behind Ole Miss’ recent success, was officially named LSU’s new head coach on Sunday night. And while he’s barely had time to unpack in Baton Rouge, Kiffin is already stirring the pot with a not-so-subtle hint that his prized quarterback, Trinidad Chambliss, might be coming with him.
Let’s break it down.
Kiffin Wastes No Time - And Neither Do the Rumors
Kiffin’s social media presence has always been part of his brand, and Monday morning was no exception. In a post that’s already set LSU Twitter ablaze, Kiffin dropped a motivational message with two very pointed emojis: a Tiger 🐯 and the Trinidad and Tobago flag 🇹🇹. That’s not just a random pairing - it’s a clear nod to Chambliss, whose breakout season has made him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football.
"Exhale. Have the best Monday ever. #GodsPlan 🇹🇹🐯," Kiffin wrote.
Subtle? Not quite.
Intentional? Almost certainly.
Chambliss: From Division II Champion to SEC Star
Trinidad Chambliss isn’t just a feel-good story - he’s been a game-changer. After leading Ferris State to a Division II national title last season, he transferred to Ole Miss and began 2025 as a backup. But when starter Austin Simmons went down with an injury on September 13 against Arkansas, Chambliss stepped in - and never looked back.
Since taking over, he’s posted a 9-1 record as the Rebels' starter, guiding Ole Miss to its first-ever 11-win regular season. That’s not a typo - first ever.
His numbers back it up: 3,016 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, just three interceptions, and a completion rate of 65.5%. He’s also added 470 rushing yards and six touchdowns on the ground, averaging 4.0 yards per carry.
This isn’t just a quarterback managing the game - this is a quarterback owning it.
LSU Fans Already Know What Chambliss Can Do
If there’s any fanbase that doesn’t need a reminder of Chambliss’ ability, it’s LSU’s. On September 27, Chambliss carved up the Tigers’ defense in Oxford, leading Ole Miss to a 24-19 win.
He accounted for 385 total yards - 314 through the air and 71 on the ground - and was the difference-maker all night. LSU’s defense had its chances to get off the field, but Chambliss kept slipping out of pressure, extending plays, and hitting receivers in stride.
It was the kind of performance that sticks with you - and clearly, it stuck with LSU.
What’s Next?
With Garrett Nussmeier out of eligibility and backup Michael Van Buren still looking inconsistent, there’s a clear opportunity for someone like Chambliss to step in and take the reins in Baton Rouge. And if Kiffin is indeed looking to bring his guy with him - well, it wouldn’t be the first time a coach and quarterback made a package deal.
Chambliss has proven he can run Kiffin’s offense at a high level. The chemistry is already there.
The system fits. And now, the opportunity is presenting itself again - this time, on an even bigger stage.
Whether Chambliss decides to follow Kiffin to LSU remains to be seen. But if social media is any indication, the groundwork is already being laid. One thing’s for sure: the Tigers just got a head coach who knows how to win - and he might be bringing a quarterback who knows how to do it, too.