LANE KIFFIN IS IN THE HOUSE
by Danny Wright
The “House that Howie built” just got a new lead tenant. Lane Kiffin, formerly of the Oakland Raiders, University of Tennessee, Southern Cal, and national football powerhouse Alabama will now be wearing the red and blue of the FAU Owls. Only one word to describe it. “WOW”.
Charlie Partridge’s tire tracks out of town were still visible when rumors of Kiffin began. Many thought it was a pipe dream. Obviously, FAU Athletic Director Pat Chun had other plans. “He emerged as our top candidate because of his conviction and belief in FAU. He impressed us with his humility and plan to demand excellence out of our student-athletes. We are excited to have a coach of his caliber lead our program.” Chun stated.
Look up the term “game changer” and you might find a photo or Lane trolling down A1A in his convertible on his cell phone with a prospective recruit. Anyone in high school who plays an offensive skill position will be intrigued with this move. Already, FAU has secured Florida State transfer De’Andre Johnson, ranked as the nation’s #2 pro-style JUCO quarterback, who has 3 years of eligibility remaining. You can bet more signings are on the horizon.
Upon the hiring of Lane Kiffin, the recruiting dynamics in the state of Florida shifted. Now, with Butch Davis down the road at FIU, former Gator defensive coordinator Charlie Strong at USF, McElwain at U.F., Richt at Miami, and Fisher at FSU the competition for Florida recruits will be fierce.
But the signing of Lane Kiffin is big on several levels. Imagine a sold out FAU stadium for every home game and the economic impact it will have on the area. More area high school students will want to attend FAU. More football prospects will want to visit. More money for the university to invest in academic programs that benefit all students. More national exposure.
Boca Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Troy McLellan shared his enthusiasm. “We believe Coach Lane Kiffin will bring a focus on winning to FAU. This national recognition and focus on success will increase the amount of season ticket holders and broaden the FAU football fan base. This increased support will inject our local economy with increased activity in our hospitality and restaurant/retail sector – and fill the seats in our one of a kind football stadium”.
Welcome to town Lane. By the way FAU football fans, you might want to check with the FAU ticket office to see when 2017 tickets go on sale. 1-866-FAU-OWLS
