Saban wants Kiffin to be a head coach

ATLANTA — Alabama Coach Nick Saban wants to help offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin get another head coaching job.

College football’s odd coaching couple led the top-ranked Crimson Tide to their third straight Southeastern Conference championship Saturday with a 54-16 win over No. 15 Florida.

They’re a lock to make it three for three in getting to the playoffs when the matchups are announced on Sunday.

Kiffin has thrived in his role with the Tide, but the former USC, Tennessee and Oakland Raiders head coach is frequently mentioned for other jobs.

His name has come up as a potential candidate for the openings at Oregon and Houston and for the offensive-coordinator position at Louisiana State under former USC colleague Ed Orgeron.

“We’ve had conversations about it,” Saban said. “He wants to be a head coach. I want him to be a head coach. I want to help him get a head coaching job.

“The rest of it, we have not discussed, and I don’t think it’s the right time.”

The coach added that time could come in the next couple of weeks.

For his part, Kiffin wanted to savor the moment instead of talking about his future. He remained by himself while the team surged onto the field in celebration, strolling around and briefly chatting with SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey and others.

“I don’t want to talk about it right now,” Kiffin said when asked about his future. “I just want to enjoy winning another SEC championship.”

Asked if he’d be with the Tide through the playoffs, he chuckled: “I hope so. If they’ll let me.”

Kiffin helped the Tide win the national championship last season.