Lane Kiffin Laments End of Alabama-LSU Annual Rivalry, Advises LSU Fans to 'Start Drinking Early'

LSU head coach Lane Kiffin has voiced his disappointment over the changing landscape of college football, particularly the impending end of the annual rivalry game between LSU and Alabama after 63 consecutive seasons. Kiffin attributed these shifts to the influence of money in the sport, a sentiment he shared during a press conference.

"I think that's just sad," Kiffin said, referring to the changes driven by conference realignment and the pursuit of financial gain. "All the decisions, usually, I think all of them probably really come down to money, whether that's the realignments, whether that's the rivalries. So, I think it's all sad in general in the big picture of things that money drives to make [changes to] such great traditions and rivalries."

While Kiffin acknowledged that traditions can evolve, he expressed a wish for certain aspects of college football to remain unchanged. The upcoming game between LSU and Alabama, both with 6-2 records, carries significant College Football Playoff implications. However, it will be the last time the two teams play every year due to the SEC's future scheduling format, although they are scheduled to meet again in 2028.

Kiffin also commented on the unusual kickoff time for the LSU-Alabama game, which is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. local time. He noted that night games have been a tradition for this rivalry at LSU, and he suggested that fans should adjust their routines to generate the same level of energy as a night game. "We want our players to play well... If you are used to 6:30, four hours earlier, start your day earlier," Kiffin advised. "Have breakfast earlier. Start drinking earlier, whatever is your routine, just move it up."

This advice comes after Kiffin previously expressed frustration with his former team, Ole Miss, not having night conference games while LSU seemingly did. He admitted his naivete in assuming the LSU-Alabama game would remain a night contest, a tradition he believed would continue.

Despite his critiques of the scheduling changes, Kiffin's focus is on the upcoming game, where he hopes his team can secure a crucial win. The coaching changes and scheduling shifts in college football continue to reshape traditional rivalries, with financial considerations often taking precedence.