NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A former head coach in both the pro and college ranks, Lane Kiffin said Monday he plans to return to Alabama next season as offensive coordinator.
Kiffin spoke at the Sugar Bowl media session along with offensive stars from the top-ranked Crimson Tide, about the same time several NFL teams were dismissing their coaches on what is known as “Black Monday.”
Asked if he plans to return to Alabama next season after a dynamic offensive season that served as a bit of redemption, Kiffin replied, “Yes. Definitely. I think that we’ve still got a lot of stuff that we can do better.”
It was the first time Kiffin has addressed the media since August.
Head coach Nick Saban does not allow access to his assistants during the regular season.
Kiffin was largely low-key while taking questions for 45 minutes, a far cry from the cocky demeanor he was known for while coaching the NFL’s Oakland Raiders and during college stints at Tennessee and Southern Cal.
He thanked Saban for the opportunity — “I should pay him” — and said he’s become a better coach simply by observing how things are done at Alabama.