Lane Kiffin has yet to coach a single game for LSU, but he's already making waves in Baton Rouge. After leaving Ole Miss mid-playoff run and weathering the ensuing storm, Kiffin has assembled what many are calling the greatest transfer portal class in college football history.
And then there's his latest Instagram story-an unexpected post featuring him shooting hoops with influencer twins Hanna and Haley Cavinder. No caption needed; the image spoke volumes.
This is classic Kiffin, straddling the line between football tactician and cultural icon, seemingly unfazed by the spotlight. The Cavinder twins bring a social media clout that most NIL departments can only dream of. But Kiffin didn’t need an elaborate campaign-just a casual basketball video that fits his well-known pattern.
When asked if LSU had assembled the best transfer portal class ever, Kiffin confidently stated, “I think talent-wise, probably is. The volume helps when I make that statement.” 247Sports backs him up, ranking LSU’s 2026 class No. 1 in the nation, bolstered by the top transfer ranking.
While the Instagram post might seem minor, it feeds into a larger narrative about Kiffin’s persona and whether this version of him can succeed at LSU. The transfer class has certainly generated goodwill, but not everyone is convinced.
Anonymous coaches shared their skepticism with The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman and Antonio Morales. A Big 12 assistant remarked that LSU has given Kiffin all the tools to win but cautioned, “It’s Lane.
He can be his own worst enemy.” A Big Ten assistant echoed this sentiment, noting Kiffin's knack for stirring up drama.
LSU finished 7-6 in Brian Kelly’s last season, marking the program's worst record since 2021. Kiffin inherited a roster in need of a serious overhaul and responded with over 40 portal additions.
Among the top-100 signees are quarterback Sam Leavitt, offensive lineman Jordan Seaton, and edge rusher Princewill Umanmielen. The infrastructure is in place, and the roster is stacked.
Now, it’s a waiting game to see how it all plays out on the field.