Dan Lanning’s rapid ascent at Oregon has turned heads across college football. In only his third year, he led the Ducks to a perfect regular season, clinched the program’s first Big Ten championship, and secured a No. 1 national ranking—their highest in more than 10 years.
Oregon’s debut Big Ten campaign included victories over Penn State and the eventual national champion, Ohio State. Still, ESPN placed Lanning just sixth in its latest top 10 coaches list, a ranking many view as surprisingly low given Oregon’s dominance and his undeniable coaching trajectory.
Oregon’s Dan Lanning Lands No. 6 Spot In ESPN’s Top 10 CFB Coaches After Big Ten Title
Lanning has compiled a 35-6 record since taking over Oregon in 2022, the fourth-most wins in the FBS during that period, trailing only Georgia (39), Michigan (36), and Ohio State (36). Despite leading the Ducks to an undefeated Big Ten season and conference title, ESPN ranked him No. 6 in its latest top 10 college football coaches list.
Lanning received considerable praise from several voters. Harry Lyles Jr. ranked him fourth overall and highlighted his leadership, player development, and strong start as a head coach.
“When creating my top 10, I considered experience and success, while also asking myself what coach I would want to start a program with,” Lyles Jr. said. “Lanning unquestionably has to be high on that list, in part because of his previous experience before becoming the head man, and his success as a head coach.”
According to Lyles Jr., Lanning’s success isn’t a fluke.
“He’s shown an ability to get the most out of players, and carried Oregon’s momentum from his first two seasons at the helm into its first season in the Big Ten by winning the conference with an undefeated record. I don’t think he’s finished raising the standard in Eugene,” he said.
However, not every voter agreed. Bill Connelly excluded Lanning from his ballot, pointing to a lack of longevity.
“Longevity, I guess?” Connelly said. “He’s obviously on his way to something pretty awesome in Eugene, and with quite a bit of turnover, we’ll learn about his ability to navigate through a retooling season.”
Indeed, Oregon faces key personnel changes. Ten players, including quarterback Dillon Gabriel, departed for the NFL. Gabriel threw for 30 touchdowns against just six interceptions last season. The Ducks now turn to transfer quarterback Dante Moore, who’s aware of the pressure.
“I just know Coach [Dan] Lanning always tells me pressure is a privilege,” Moore said. “I’m just living in the moment.”
Oregon added notable transfers like running back Makhi Hughes and offensive lineman Isaiah World, aiming to maintain its national standing.
KEEP READING: Top 10 Recruits in Oregon Ducks History Include Kayvon Thibodeaux, De’Anthony Thomas
The Ducks will face Penn State again in September, offering another chance to solidify Lanning’s rising reputation. Still, ESPN’s rankings suggest voters want further proof that he can sustain success through transition.
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