Legendary football coach Monte Kiffin, known for his innovative cover 2 defense, passed away at the age of 84 in Oxford, Mississippi, as confirmed by Ole Miss on Twitter. Kiffin, the father of Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin, played a pivotal role in the Super Bowl-winning Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense and is honored in the team’s Ring of Honor. His coaching staff also produced future NFL head coaches and coordinators.

Starting his career as a graduate assistant at Nebraska, Kiffin went on to achieve national titles with the Cornhuskers before making his mark in the NFL, particularly with the Buccaneers as their defensive coordinator. His coaching tree includes prominent names like Mike Tomlin, Raheem Morris, and Herm Edwards, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest defensive minds in the game.

Following his time in Tampa Bay, Kiffin continued coaching in college and the NFL, including a stint with the Dallas Cowboys. He eventually joined his son’s coaching staff at Ole Miss before retiring as a player personnel analyst. Lane Kiffin paid tribute to his father on social media, acknowledging him as his hero.

Fans and the football community alike mourned Monte Kiffin’s passing, recognizing his lasting impact on the sport. Tributes poured in from various sources, lauding Kiffin as a brilliant coach and mentor who shaped the landscape of modern defense in football.