Oregon HC Dan Lanning Previews the Season | 2024 B1G Football Media Days

Summary

In this engaging interview, University of Oregon's head football coach Dan Lanning discusses the excitement of joining the Big 10, emphasizing the team's focus on winning through strength at the line of scrimmage and the importance of adapting to change. He highlights the team's growth, toughness, and sacrifice, and shares insights into the impact of Nike's founder Phil Knight on the program. Lanning also touches on the mentorship of former Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota and the unique culture of Autzen Stadium, inviting Big 10 fans to experience the Ducks' 'Mighty Different' approach to football.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The University of Oregon's entrance into the Big 10 was celebrated with a 65-foot tall inflatable duck in Indianapolis, showcasing their enthusiasm for joining the conference.
• 🏈 Head coach Dan Lanning expresses excitement about the affiliation with the Big 10, the history, and the opportunity to compete for championships against top teams.
• 🔥 Coach Lanning emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present and controlling what's in front of the team rather than being swayed by external expectations or predictions.
• 🤔 He discusses the challenge of adapting to a new conference and the need to understand the strengths of the players to leverage them effectively.
• 🏆 The coach highlights the similarities in what winning football looks like across different conferences, focusing on the need to excel at every position.
• 👀 There are noted differences between the Pac-12 and the Big 10, particularly in offensive and defensive strategies, which the Ducks are preparing to address.
• 🌟 Coach Lanning shares insights from a staff retreat, focusing on team expectations, organizational needs, and bonding activities to strengthen the coaching team.
• 👍 He speaks highly of new quarterback Dylan Gabriel, praising his adaptability, experience, and authentic connection with the team.
• 💪 The Ducks' program has been built with an emphasis on the line of scrimmage, aiming to excel in both offensive and defensive lines to secure victories.
• 🤝 The relationship between Oregon and Nike is deeply intertwined, with Phil Knight's influence and Nike's principles of innovation and difference shaping the program's approach.
• 🌈 Autzen Stadium is described as an energetic and passionate environment for college football, with fans known for their enthusiasm and standing support throughout games.

Q & A

What was the University of Oregon's approach to announcing its entrance into the Big 10?

Contrary to the initial subtle and understated approach mentioned, the University of Oregon actually had a 65-foot tall duck float down the White River in Indianapolis to make a grand entrance into the Big 10.

How does Coach Dan Lanning feel about joining the Big 10 conference?

Coach Dan Lanning is excited about joining the Big 10 for several reasons, including the conference's history, traditions, and the opportunity to compete for championships against top teams.

What is Coach Lanning's view on handling expectations and conveying the right message to his players?

Coach Lanning believes that the focus should be on controlling their destiny by concentrating on what's directly in front of them rather than external expectations or predictions.

How does Coach Lanning describe the differences between the SEC, the Pac-12, and the Big 10?

While acknowledging there are differences within each conference, Coach Lanning doesn't see a difference in what winning football looks like across these conferences, emphasizing the need for a well-rounded team that can excel in all aspects of the game.

What are the small differences Coach Lanning sees between the Pac-12 and the Big 10?

Coach Lanning notes that the Big 10 has historically played great defense but may not have been as explosive offensively, with perhaps less speed on the outside compared to the Pac-12. However, he also mentions that these differences are starting to blend as new teams join the conferences.

What does Coach Lanning mean by 'Mighty Different' when talking about the DNA traits of his team?

'Mighty Different' is a term used by Coach Lanning to describe the unique identity and approach of his team, emphasizing the need for change, being different, and embracing a distinct way of doing things.

What was the focus of the staff retreat Coach Lanning organized for his team?

The staff retreat focused on setting expectations for the season, discussing what each party needs from the others, and spending time bonding outside of work through activities like floating down the river and sharing meals.

How does Coach Lanning view the challenge of having a new quarterback like Gabriel coming in through the transfer portal?

Coach Lanning sees the challenge as an opportunity to identify the strengths of the new player and to put them in positions where they can excel, much like high school coaches do with their teams.

What is Coach Lanning's opinion on the line of scrimmage and how his team compares to others in the Big 10?

Coach Lanning believes that winning games, especially at the end of the season, requires excelling at the line of scrimmage on both offense and defense. He is confident in his team's ability in this area, having won the Joe Moore award for the best offensive line in the country.

How does Coach Lanning describe the relationship between Oregon and Nike, and its impact on the program?

Coach Lanning describes the relationship as deeply intertwined, with Nike being an integral part of Oregon's identity. The innovation and principles of Nike have influenced the way the program operates, with a focus on change and being different.

What does Coach Lanning want Big 10 fans to know about Oregon football that they may not already know?

Coach Lanning wants Big 10 fans to understand that Oregon football is 'Mighty Different,' and that they should expect a fun and exciting experience when watching Oregon play.