Lane Kiffin confirms return to Alabama

Lane Kiffin is staying put.

Alabama announced Saturday that Kiffin will return as the Crimson Tide's offensive coordinator for the 2015 season. He was considered a front-runner for the San Francisco 49ers' vacant offensive coordinator position. 

After completing his first season in Tuscaloosa, Ala., Kiffin said he made a commitment to the school and he plans to honor it.

"I made a comment at the Sugar Bowl that I would be back this fall at Alabama and that is definitely the plan," he said. "This time of year, there are lots of things out there regarding other coaching opportunities, but I want to reaffirm my commitment to the University of Alabama, coach (Nick) Saban and our team. 

"I'm excited about what our offensive staff was able to accomplish last year, but I also think there are a lot of things we can do a better job of in terms of putting our players in the best situation to have success."

Kiffin credited Saban for giving him the opportunity to join his staff, to succeed and to lead one of the nation's most potent offenses. 

"I also have learned so much in the time I've spent with coach Saban and really have a better understanding of what makes him the great coach that he is," he said. "I think the more time I can spend learning from him, the better coach I will be in the future."