Lane Kiffin isn't sticking around to run the Alabama offense in the national title game, bringing an end to a successful but sometimes tense three-year pairing with coach Nick Saban.
Saban said Monday that Kiffin will leave to focus on his new job as Florida Atlantic coach. Incoming offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will replace him for next Monday's game against Clemson in Tampa, Fla.
Kiffin and Saban said they made the decision after meetings following the Peach Bowl victory over Washington.
"We appreciate all that Lane has done for our football program over the last three years," Saban said.
Kiffin, a Bloomington Jefferson alum, was asked before the Peach Bowl if he could recall the happiest moment with Saban in a game. "I don't recall a happy moment," he said, adding that he only remembers the many times he was chewed out. "I won't take that part of the process with me, though."
Hooker entering draft
Ohio State All-America safety Malik Hooker is entering the NFL draft. Hooker led the Buckeyes in interceptions with seven.
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