LOS ANGELES (WVLT) -- Former Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin told the Los Angeles Times Wednesday that embattled Auburn quarterback Cam Newton never asked him for money in exchange for his services, amidst reports that Newton told Mississippi State coaches he was signing with the Tigers because they were paying him.

"We didn't offer him a scholarship, which doesn't make me look very smart, but we did talk to him," Kiffin said. "We just went in a different direction. He was a very exciting player that wasn't necessarily a perfect system fit for what we were doing, but we knew he would be great in other systems."

Recent reports indicate that Newton wanted to sign with Mississippi State, but chose Auburn because of financial inducements. Kiffin puts little stock in the allegations.

"I remember so many things said about me that weren't accurate," Kiffin said. "It was a good lesson learned. If something comes on the radio or in print, I don't think there are any facts to it at all until someone shows some proof. This is a perfect example."