Tampa, FL – Pete Golding took the stage on Wednesday at SEC Media Days, ready to share his perspectives on the current college football scene. He also addressed the much-anticipated questions about Lane Kiffin, given Kiffin’s known tendency to express his unfiltered opinions on various topics.
Relationship with Lane Kiffin
A key topic at the media event was Golding’s relationship with former Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin. For those familiar with recent developments, Golding’s opinion on Kiffin is no mystery. They remain friends despite some disagreements, including Kiffin’s controversial move to LSU. Golding still communicates regularly with Kiffin, occasionally taking a break to test Kiffin’s patience.
“I get this everywhere we go…Lane and I are good,” Golding said. “I didn’t come to Ole Miss because of Kiffin, I came to Ole Miss to raise three kids. Our relationship grew over those three years.”
Golding appreciates Kiffin’s support and shares no hard feelings. Their ongoing communication highlights this mutual respect.
The Ole Miss vs. LSU Rivalry
This season’s Ole Miss vs. LSU clash in Oxford is more about the players and fans than coaching rivalries. Despite past upheavals, both coaches aim to triumph on the field, finding themselves in better positions post the December drama.
“In 2021, if you said you can look in 2025 and you’re about to be 11-1 and go to the playoff. Would you take it if your coach was leaving? Hell yea, you would. Everybody won from it, it’s okay,” Golding reflects.
Golding expressed his wish for Kiffin to remain at Ole Miss, revealing a personal fondness for his role as Defensive Coordinator. However, he acknowledged Kiffin’s decision was best for Kiffin and his family.
Controversy with Clemson
Golding also addressed the tampering accusations from Dabo Swinney regarding Clemson and LB Luke Fornelli. Clemson claims tampering over Ole Miss’ interactions with Fornelli while he was part of their program.
“You’re a reporter right? Would you quit your job before interviewing for another job or being offered another job?” Golding rhetorically questioned.
Golding finds the NCAA’s regulations illogical, citing how they complicate recruitment dynamics. He further emphasized this lack of morality within collegiate recruiting practices.
“Let’s not act like recruiting in college football for the past 100 years is the most moral thing. What are we talking about?”
Golding’s remarks reflect broader criticism of the NCAA systems and their unintended effects on both institutions and players.