Lane Kiffin mastered ‘art of abstract trash talk’ with passive shot at Auburn legend

Manipulative and cunning, Lane Kiffin has “mastered the art of abstract trash talk” with his passive shot at Auburn football legend Cam Newton — this via a flashback of the “dab” from his son Knox after Lane’s Crimson Tide offense steamrolled Will Muschamp’s defense in the 2015 Iron Bowl, making a mockery of No. 2’s legendary 2010 Iron Bowl performance — according to USA Today’s Kevin Skiver.

“One thing Lane Kiffin needs to get credit for: He has mastered the art of abstract trash talk,” Skiver prefaced before saying, “Kiffin continued his run this week ahead of Ole Miss’ matchup against Auburn, going all the way back to the 2015 Iron Bowl to cast shade upon the Tigers.

“After Alabama’s 29-13 win against Auburn that season, Kiffin’s son Knox dabbed on the field to celebrate (mocking Auburn alum Cam Newton). Kiffin shared that picture again on Wednesday, just to dredge up some old wounds.”

Lane Kiffin could have the last laugh on Auburn football after 2022 coaching cycle saga

Kiffin appeared to be a lock to become the next head coach on the Plains, with one walk-on telling me the night of the Egg Bowl that the Ole Miss head coach was expected to be hired by Auburn on either November 25, 26, or 27.

Hugh Freeze was hired instead, and what followed was an offseason where the Tigers seemingly won repeatedly in the transfer portal. The Rebels, though, finished with a higher-ranked haul and returned many of the key pieces, including most notably Jaxson Dart and Quinshon Judkins, and have a far superior on-field product.

In many ways, it’s shocking how poorly Auburn’s offense has clicked. Freeze has seen his transfer quarterback Payton Thorne struggle more than any other Tiger, and that’s leading to a defense that shows flashes every game being overworked in SEC play; seemingly exposed under the brightest lights in the process.

Kiffin could end up with the last laugh in the rivalry if these trajectories continue. Because even when the SEC West is done away with and these two teams don’t play every year anymore, Kiffin and AU will be linked.