SEC files amended complaint against LSU, cites loss of institutional control over football program
The SEC has lodged an amended federal complaint alleging that LSU lacks control over head coach Lane Kiffin and could face expulsion if two-thirds of conference CEOs vote for termination.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed an amended complaint in an Alabama federal court on Tuesday, accusing Louisiana State University of failing to exercise institutional control over its football program and head coach Lane Kiffin. The filing follows a September 4 meeting of SEC presidents and chancellors, during which members expressed concern that LSU officials have not been able to direct Kiffan's actions.
The complaint states the SEC is not seeking to bar any student-athlete from competition but is targeting “state actors” it says have violated the conference’s First Amendment rights. It also outlines the procedure for terminating a member school’s conference membership, requiring a two-thirds vote of the conference’s chief executives.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey testified for more than three hours in a Baton Rouge courtroom, after which the conference announced a special meeting on Thursday to consider whether LSU should be expelled. The meeting will address allegations that LSU’s athletic department has allowed Kiffin to operate the football program without oversight, contrary to SEC rules on institutional control and recent policies regarding athletes with professional experience.
"Expressed great concern that Defendants Rousse and Ausberry have no meaningful control over Defendant Kiffin or the football program at LSU," the complaint reads.
If the vote reaches the required threshold, LSU’s membership could be terminated, though officials note that such an outcome is considered unlikely. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the university and the conference over compliance with SEC bylaws and recent policy statements.