Lane Kiffin is the head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers college football team.
Since Kiffin took control over the Tennessee Volunteers in late 2008, Kiffin and the team have been subject to several NCAA violations, including a self-reported secondary violation in May of 2009, in which an unsigned prospective player was mentioned by name in Kiffin's Twitter stream.ESPN.com: Tennessee to Report Another Violation The team has also lost 11 scholarship players since he was hired as coach.ESPN.com: Under Kiffin, Vols Have Lost 11 Players
Recruiting Gaffes
Kiffin came under fire in February of 2009, after mentioning by name an unsigned prospect on a radio interview. Discussing unsigned prospects is strictly prohibited by NCAA policies and Kiffin is expected to be disciplined for the remarks.ESPN.com: Kiffin Commits Third Recruiting Gaffe
Kiffin vs. Meyer
On February 4, 2008, during a National Signing Day event at Tennessee, Kiffin accused Florida Gators coach Urban Meyer of violating recruiting roles by contacting wide receiver prospect Nu'Keese Richardson during Richardson's visit to Tennessee. Meyer and the SEC Conference were not flattered by the claims and Kiffin later apologized saying it was not his intention to offend Meyer.ESPN.com: Kiffin Reprimanded by SEC, Apologizes
Time with the Raiders
Kiffin was appointed head coach of the Oakland Raiders in 2007 at the age of 31, making him the youngest person to become a head coach in National Football League history. In his first season with the Raiders, the team finished the regular season with a 4-12 record. On January 25, 2008, it was rumored that Raiders owner Al Davis ordered Kiffin to resign as head coach. Kiffin did not resign, and neither have commented publicly on the incident. Kiffin was fired on September 30, 2008.
Background
Kiffin previously coached at various other lower level positions at the University of Southern California, Colorado State University and Fresno State University. Kiffin also attended Fresno State, where he was the quarterback of their football team.
Lane Kiffin Vital Stats
Mahalo's Guide to the Oakland Raiders
Pro-Football-Reference.com: Coaching Stats
Head Coach Rookie Year: 2007