College football's most intriguing coaching storyline continues with Lane Kiffin unexpectedly collecting a massive playoff bonus after leaving Ole Miss for LSU.

Despite departing Oxford in late November for a new coaching position, Kiffin will receive a $500,000 bonus following the Rebels' dramatic 39-34 Sugar Bowl triumph over Georgia. The payout comes through contractual incentives tied to the team's College Football Playoff performance.

Kiffin's unique bonus structure was already in motion before his departure. He initially earned $150,000 when Ole Miss secured a CFP berth, followed by an additional $250,000 after defeating Tulane in the first round. The Sugar Bowl victory pushed his total bonus to $500,000.

Even more fascinating, Kiffin was not on the sidelines for the momentous win, instead watching LSU's women's basketball game. His successor, Pete Golding, now leads the team and is eligible for identical postseason bonuses directly from the university.

The potential for further financial rewards remains. If Ole Miss advances to the national championship game, Kiffin's bonus could escalate to $750,000. A national title would trigger the full $1 million payout - an extraordinary scenario that highlights the complex world of college football coaching contracts.

Kiffin's departure in November triggered significant coaching movement across the sport, with his move to LSU creating a domino effect of program changes. Now, he'll watch from afar as Ole Miss prepares to face Miami in the Fiesta Bowl, potentially increasing his bonus without ever calling a play for the team.