During his weekly news conference on Wednesday, LSU football coach Brian Kelly grabbed the opportunity to take a funny shot at Ole Miss counterpart Lane Kiffin.
College football is a moneymaking machine. And conferences around the country have created profitable partnerships with some of the world’s biggest corporations. The SEC is the sport’s largest conference, and popular beverage corporation Coca-Cola has long been a significant sponsor.
However, during his Monday press conference, Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin casually questioned the relevance of the renowned cocktail.”You guys have 130 percent of your sugar for the entire day in this one bottle,” he stated during a pause between reporter inquiries.
It was an unusual moment and comment in an era when sponsors are willing to pull their deals and take their sponsorship cash elsewhere. However, in his own press conference this week, LSU Tigers football coach Brian Kelly identified a rare opportunity. Not only to smooth over whatever ruffled feathers Kiffin may have caused, but also to poke fun at the Ole Miss coach’s comment.
LSU head coach Brian Kelly hilariously praises Coke product
“Just a shout out to our sponsor Coke,” Kelly said as the news conference began. “Smart Water is an excellent Coke product. Minerals and vitamins are fantastic for you; it’s refreshing and healthful, and Coke has everything you need. Depending on what you want, and I adore Smart Water,” he remarked before taking a long swig from his bottle.
It was a fantastic flip-side moment from the 21-year head coach who understands the importance of maintaining positive relationships with large sponsors. It was also an opportunity for Kelly to laugh, as Kiffin had the last laugh in 2023, when his Ole Miss team surprised Kelly and LSU by defeating them 55-49. This should make this year’s game even more exciting.
