Lane Kiffin's time at Alabama isn't over yet.

After reports circulated that Kiffin was a "front-runner" for the San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator job, Alabama confirmed Saturday afternoon that Kiffin would remain in the same position with the Crimson Tide in 2015.

"I made a comment at the Sugar Bowl that I would be back this fall at Alabama and that is definitely the plan," Kiffin said in a statement. "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.

"After being here for a year, I can see why this is such a special place in terms of the history, tradition, and how much football means to everyone at Alabama. 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. I think the more time I can spend learning from him, the better coach I will be in the future."

In Kiffin's first season at Alabama in 2014, the Crimson Tide offense finished 18th nationally in total offense (484.5 yards per game) and 16th in scoring offense (36.9 points per game). He also played a role in developing first-year starting quarterback Blake Sims, and helping wide receiver Amari Cooper break several school and SEC records.

On Dec. 1, Kiffin was named a finalist for the Broyles Award last season, which is given annually to the top assistant coach in college football.

According to USA TODAY, Kiffin was the 25th-highest paid assistant in college football in 2014 ($680,000). His contract, signed last January, is for three years.

Saban, who strongly defended Kiffin's hiring, reacted positively to the decision through a statement also released by UA Athletics.

"We’ve very pleased and happy that Lane is going to be staying here at the University of Alabama with us," Saban said. "He’s done a fabulous job and is one of the finest offensive coaches in the country. He is going to have plenty of opportunities in the future and we want to continue to help him develop as a coach so when he leaves here, he’ll be in a very good situation. Our offense was extremely productive last season and we look forward to building on some of the good things we did on that side of the ball with this year’s team."

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