Dan Lanning has made an impressive start as the head coach of the Oregon Ducks, winning 22 out of his first 27 games. In just his third year at the helm, Lanning believes he has assembled a roster capable of not just reaching the newly expanded College Football Playoff but winning it all. Lanning’s confidence is bolstered by the program’s recent recruiting success, with three of the last four classes ranking in the top 10 nationally. Additionally, the Ducks have been aggressive in leveraging the transfer portal to build a championship-caliber team, supported by the Nike-fueled Division Street collective.
“What’s intentional with the portal is making sure that you have the best roster you can possibly have,” Lanning remarked, underscoring the importance of talent accumulation in today’s college football landscape.
Oregon has not appeared in the CFP since Marcus Mariota led them to the inaugural playoff in 2014. However, with a 12-team field now in place, the Ducks are well-positioned to be regular contenders. The move to the Big Ten conference, while challenging, does not alter their ambitions. Lanning is confident that his team’s style of play will translate well, even in the more competitive environment.
Oregon’s high-powered offense, historically a hallmark of the program, remains intact despite the departure of Heisman finalist Bo Nix to the NFL. Lanning secured Dillon Gabriel, a seasoned quarterback with stints at UCF and Oklahoma, to lead the offense. Gabriel will benefit from a strong offensive line and a deep receiving corps, including returning standout Tez Johnson and Texas A&M transfer Evan Stewart. The Ducks’ offense is expected to be as explosive as ever, continuing the tradition of star QBs like Mariota and Justin Herbert.
Lanning’s true expertise lies on the defensive side, and he, along with defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi, has worked to reshape Oregon’s defense into an SEC-style powerhouse. The Ducks boast a formidable front line, with imposing figures like Jordan Burch and Matayo Uiagalelei leading the charge. Lanning’s goal is to build a defense that mirrors the elite units he and Lupoi previously coached in the SEC.
Oregon’s administration has shown its commitment to Lanning, signing him to a contract that includes a hefty $20 million buyout. This unique arrangement underscores the program’s belief in Lanning as the coach who can finally bring a national championship to Eugene. Lanning has quickly become a rising star in college football, known for both his on-field success and his dynamic personality.
Despite Lanning’s accomplishments, there are areas for improvement, particularly in rivalry games. Lanning has a 1-4 record against Washington and Oregon State, with the losses often marked by aggressive fourth-down decisions that backfired. Ducks fans are expecting Lanning to deliver decisive victories against these rivals this season and secure, at the very least, a Playoff berth.
Oregon’s path to the Playoff this season includes challenging matchups in their first Big Ten schedule, with key games against Ohio State and Michigan. However, with a manageable draw overall, the Ducks are optimistic about their chances.
The biggest hurdle for Oregon will be integrating new players into key roles after losing several starters from last season. If Lanning and his staff can successfully navigate these challenges, the Ducks could finally clear the last remaining obstacle and claim their first national title.
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