ole miss coach lane kiffin says wake forest violated an 'unwritten rule' in buying out 2025 game

Vender Womder

2 min read

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22-11-2024

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Ole Miss Coach Lane Kiffin Calls Out Wake Forest for "Unwritten Rule" Violation in Game Buyout

Ole Miss Rebels head coach Lane Kiffin publicly criticized Wake Forest's decision to buy out of their scheduled 2025 game, claiming the Demon Deacons violated an "unwritten rule" within college football. The move has sparked debate about the ethics and future of scheduling in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics.

Kiffin voiced his displeasure on social media and during press conferences, expressing his disappointment with Wake Forest's actions. He argued that while buyouts are a part of the business of college football, Wake Forest's decision lacked the typical courtesy and adherence to unspoken agreements within the coaching community. This "unwritten rule," according to Kiffin, involves giving adequate notice and maintaining respectful communication before opting out of a scheduled game, especially one planned years in advance.

The controversy stems from the fact that both programs had committed to the 2025 game years ago, a commitment that involves significant logistical planning and fan anticipation. Kiffin implied that Wake Forest's sudden decision disrupted these plans and demonstrated a disregard for the long-term relationships built within the sport.

The Implications for Future Scheduling:

Kiffin's public criticism highlights a growing concern among coaches about the increasing prevalence of game buyouts. The perceived lack of sportsmanship involved in these decisions could lead to a chilling effect on future scheduling agreements. Coaches might become more hesitant to commit to long-term games, fearing that a sudden buyout could disrupt their programs.

The financial incentives behind these buyouts are undeniable. Wake Forest likely secured a more lucrative opportunity by buying out of the game with Ole Miss, perhaps opting for a matchup against a higher-profile opponent or a game with greater financial benefits. However, this financial gain comes at the cost of potential reputational damage and a fractured relationship within the coaching community.

Beyond the Dollars: Sportsmanship and Respect:

While the financial aspects are significant, Kiffin's main point centers on sportsmanship and the unspoken codes of conduct within college football. He argues that the business of college football shouldn't overshadow the importance of relationships and respect between programs.

Many coaches and fans agree with Kiffin's sentiment, emphasizing that the integrity of the sport relies on more than just financial gains. The traditions and relationships built over time contribute significantly to the overall experience and cultural significance of college football.

What's Next?

The Wake Forest-Ole Miss situation serves as a cautionary tale for future scheduling. It raises questions about the balance between financial considerations and maintaining respectful relationships within the college football community. While buyouts are likely to remain a part of the landscape, the incident could prompt further discussion about establishing clearer guidelines and expectations for how these situations are handled. It remains to be seen whether this incident will influence future scheduling practices or lead to any formal changes in the rules governing game contracts. For now, the debate continues, fueled by Kiffin's outspoken critique and the broader implications for the future of college football scheduling.