Like talented, but troubled players, talented, but troubled coaches always seem to find a place somewhere. The latest example was Lane Kiffin, who agreed to a three-year deal with the University of Alabama to become their offensive coordinator, ESPN reported.

At face value, it's a great signing. Previous history also dictates the same. Beleaguered head coaches like Kiffin, who was fired from USC earlier this year, usually fare pretty well in lesser roles. Former Broncos head coach and current Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels first comes to mind. Even if they don't, their behavior is less heavily scrutinized so at least they can fail somewhat outside the spotlight, their dignity mostly intact.

A three year-deal also makes sense. Any less and it might seem like the university either doesn't have faith in Kiffin or believes he'll leave before his contract is up, which of course he will. In the most realistically best case scenario, Kiffin thrives for two years, wins one national championship, and leaves to coach the University of Washington or some other FBS program.

Likely, an athletic department as shrewd as Alabama probably figured this out already. Perhaps they even already addressed the issue of early release. Maybe Kiffin is tired of failing as a head coach, and, at least presently, believes he'll be content as a coordinator at a top program. We all know that feeling won't last long, especially if he finds his groove with the Tide. Will a school like Washington or other prestigious destinations really hire him at this point? Probably not, even if he does excel in Tuscaloosa. He'll have to take over a lesser FBS program, like Central Florida or Mississippi State (has to be somewhere warm), string a few 9 to 11 win seasons together, and then maybe he'll have redeemed himself enough to catch the eye of a big time program. That's how Bobby Petrino did it, anyway, and he's a more proven coach (but with a more checkered past).

If Kiffin does foul his chances at Alabama, it will be fun to watch him and Saban tussle. For now, of course, the four time national champion is excited about the new hire.

"We are excited to have Lane join our staff," Alabama coach Nick Saban said in a statement. "He is an outstanding and creative offensive coach who has great experience both at the college and NFL level. He has a very good understanding of the game and I have always been impressed with what I saw in the games he called. He coaches with a great deal of passion and enthusiasm, and also does an excellent job as a teacher."