Pete Golding, the head coach of Ole Miss, shared his views at the SEC Media Days in Tampa, Florida. His discussion covered the current state of college football as well as comparisons to Lane Kiffin, the former head coach. Golding’s outspoken demeanor fits well with the straightforward nature of his comments.
One major topic was his relationship with Lane Kiffin. Though they share a friendship, Golding acknowledges differences, notably Kiffin’s move to LSU. Communication between them still occurs regularly, with Golding sometimes playfully delaying his replies. Golding explains his relationship with Kiffin began grow when he joined Ole Miss to raise his family.
“I get this everywhere we go…Lane and I are good,” Golding mentioned. “I did not know coach Kiffin prior to taking the Ole Miss job. I think everybody just assumes Alabama, Alabama (assistant roles) when coach Kiffin was (there). 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 continued, expressing no resentment towards Kiffin and highlighting the continued communication and competition between them.
Golding also addressed the Ole Miss versus LSU game, stating the focus is more on the schools’ players and fans rather than the coaches. He remains focused on delivering results for his team, despite the previous season’s events.
Regarding the transition from assistant coach to head coach at Ole Miss, Golding expressed satisfaction despite the challenging circumstances. His dedication to staying in Oxford illustrates his commitment, exemplified by his purchase of one of Kiffin’s homes in the area.
Golding humorously added, “There’s always going to be history, it’s the ex, right?” while acknowledging the challenges faced towards the end of the 2025 season. He emphasizes that both he and Kiffin made decisions suited for them, regardless of external opinions.
Tampering allegations also came up with Clemson’s accusations of Ole Miss approaching linebacker Luke Fornelli. Golding approached these charges pragmatically.
“You’re a reporter right? Would you quit your job before interviewing for another job or being offered another job?” Golding asked rhetorically.
Golding stresses that the current system unjustly places pressure on players and their representation. He criticizes the illogical nature of NCAA rules regarding recruitment and offers no illusions about the moral history of college football recruiting.
He concluded with a pointed remark: “Let’s not act like recruiting in college football for the past 100 years is the most moral thing. What are we talking about?” Many may agree with Golding’s realistic viewpoints, though agreement from Dabo Swinney seems less likely.
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