Lane Kiffin's career has been marked by controversial exits, notably his abrupt departure from the Oakland Raiders in 2008. Raiders owner Al Davis publicly criticized Kiffin during a nearly hour-long press conference, calling him a 'professional liar' and a 'con man.' Davis expressed regret over his decision to hire Kiffin, citing issues such as conflicts over personnel decisions and dishonesty in the media as reasons for his termination. The firing followed a tumultuous season where Kiffin's relationship with Davis was strained, especially after Davis ignored Kiffin's recommendation to select receiver Calvin Johnson in the 2007 NFL Draft, opting instead for quarterback JaMarcus Russell, who became one of the biggest busts in NFL history. Kiffin's tenure in Oakland resulted in a 5-15 record, with reports indicating Davis wanted him to resign after his first season, which Kiffin refused. Davis ultimately fired Kiffin for cause in September 2008, a decision upheld by an NFL arbitrator. Kiffin's departure from the Raiders remains a significant chapter in NFL coaching history, and Davis's harsh criticism reflects the tumultuous nature of that relationship.