Ole Miss head football coach Lane Kiffin is mourning the loss of his father, the legendary coach Monte Kiffin, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 84.
Monte Kiffin had a storied career spanning nearly 60 years, during which he won two national championships as the defensive coordinator at Nebraska in the 1970s and a Super Bowl as the defensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002.
In recent years, Monte Kiffin served as a player personnel analyst for his son Lane at Ole Miss, a role he held for the past four seasons.
“Monte Kiffin, 84, peacefully passed away today in Oxford surrounded by family and friends,” Ole Miss Football said in a statement. “As his grandson Knox said, he’s free of pain and smiling down on us from above. Please keep the Kiffin family in your thoughts and prayers during this time.”
The news of Monte Kiffin’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences and support from Ole Miss fans and the broader football community.
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“Prayers from VolNation. Coach Kiffin was an absolute legend. Rest easy, coach,” expressed a Tennessee fan.
“Sending our prayers. Your father was one of a kind,” added an Alabama fan.
“RIP Coach Kiffin. Truly going to miss you. Prayers to the Kiffin Family,” said Jovan Haye, one of Monte Kiffin’s former players in Tampa Bay.
“Prayers. What a great honor for those who knew him and loved him. I missed out,” commented an Ole Miss fan.
“I’m so sorry for your loss @Lane_Kiffin. Will be thinking of you and your family,” a Texas fan offered.
Lane Kiffin also took to social media to share his grief and honor his father’s legacy.
Monte Kiffin’s influence on the game of football is undeniable. His innovative defensive schemes, particularly the famed “Tampa 2” defense, left a lasting impact on the sport and inspired countless players and coaches. Throughout his career, Kiffin was known not only for his strategic brilliance but also for his mentorship and leadership.
As the football world reflects on Monte Kiffin’s contributions, the sentiments shared by fans, former players, and colleagues underscore the profound respect and admiration held for him. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the profound influence he had on the game.
Our deepest condolences go out to Lane Kiffin and the entire Kiffin family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Monte Kiffin. Your legacy will never be forgotten.
