Overview
- LSU announced Kevin Smith with the associate head coach title alongside running backs coach, confirming his move from Ole Miss after he appeared in team video at the Tigers’ facility.
- Smith’s deal is reported to approach $1 million annually, placing him among the nation’s highest-paid running backs coaches, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.
- He developed standout backs at Ole Miss, including Kewan Lacy this season and Quinshon Judkins before Judkins transferred to Ohio State.
- The hire continues a wave of Ole Miss staffers following Lane Kiffin to Baton Rouge, with offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. and others already set to join after assisting the Rebels during their CFP run.
- LSU’s 2025 rushing output lagged at 1,275 yards and nine touchdowns, and the move also follows Ole Miss hiring Tigers interim head coach and RBs coach Frank Wilson as LSU monitors potential recruiting ripple effects reported by outside outlets.