Lane Kiffin criticizes Ole Miss fans for early exits during blowout win

Lane Kiffin, head coach of Ole Miss, has expressed his frustration with fans leaving games early, a recurring theme since he joined the program five seasons ago. Following two significant victories to start the season, including a 76-0 win over Furman and a 52-3 win against Middle Tennessee, Kiffin noted a stark decline in attendance after halftime. While the announced attendance for both games exceeded 66,000, actual numbers were likely around 51,000 to 52,000, with many fans departing before the second half. Kiffin emphasized the importance of fan presence for the players, particularly when they return from halftime. He compared the situation to a concert, questioning why fans would leave if the performance is going well. Despite the team's impressive performance, including a quarterback achieving notable statistics, Kiffin was perplexed by the empty seats for a top-ranked team. He acknowledged various excuses fans have given for leaving early, such as weather conditions and hunting season, but he remains uncertain about the reasons for the early exits. Kiffin's comments reflect a broader challenge of maintaining fan engagement during games, especially when the team is dominating inferior opponents. Ultimately, Kiffin's critique highlights the ongoing struggle to keep fans invested throughout the entire game, particularly when the team is performing exceptionally well. His desire for a full stadium is not just about numbers; it’s about creating an atmosphere that supports the players and enhances the overall experience of the game.