ESPN.com and The State of Columbia, citing sources, say Kiffin and Phillips met in Detroit.
Kiffin has also been mentioned for college openings in Tennessee and Washington.
Phillips declined to talk about the reports through a spokesman, and a call to Kiffin's agent, Gary Uberstine was not immediately returned Thursday.
Clemson is seeking to replace Tommy Bowden, who stepped down last month. Interim coach Dabo Swinney has gone 1-2 since taking over.
The Tigers take on Duke this Saturday at Memorial Stadium.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/11/215193