dan lanning football coach

dan lanning football coach

Dan Lanning was officially introduced as Oregon's 35th head football coach on December 11, 2021. Athletic director Rob Mullens described him as one of the brightest young coaches in college football, praising his high energy, defensive acumen, and recruiting prowess. Lanning’s leadership, according to Mullens, would help develop student-athletes both on and off the field.

In his first year at Oregon, Lanning led the Ducks to a 10-3 record, including a victory in the SDCCU Holiday Bowl. He became only the third Oregon coach to achieve 10 wins in his debut season. Under Lanning's leadership, the Ducks made further strides in 2023, finishing 12-2 with a Pac-12 Championship Game appearance and a win in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl. This strong performance marked Lanning’s second straight bowl victory, and his 22-5 record over two seasons established him as one of the top new coaches in the country.

As the Ducks transition into the Big Ten Conference in 2024, Lanning’s goal is to continue their upward trajectory, with an eye on the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff.

### Path to Oregon

Before joining Oregon, Lanning spent four seasons at Georgia, where he rose to defensive coordinator. His time at Georgia culminated in a 2022 national championship, where his defense was widely regarded as the best in the nation. Lanning was a two-time finalist for the Broyles Award, given to the top assistant coach in college football.

A native of Missouri, Lanning started his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Pittsburgh in 2011. He also held coaching roles at Arizona State, Sam Houston State, Alabama, and Memphis before his success at Georgia.

### From Good to Great: The 2023 Season

After a 10-win debut season in 2022, Lanning's 2023 Ducks improved significantly, finishing with a 12-2 record. Oregon boasted a balanced attack, ranking in the top 10 nationally for both offense and defense. They led the nation in scoring differential (+27.71), while quarterback Bo Nix set multiple school records and finished as a Heisman Trophy finalist. 

The offense, led by Nix, was electric, ranking first in passing yards per game and second in total offense. Wide receiver Troy Franklin also set school records in receiving yards and touchdowns. On the defensive side, Oregon's unit made a huge leap, ranking ninth in scoring defense and eleventh in rushing defense.

### Recruiting and Talent Development

Lanning has quickly earned a reputation as a top recruiter. His first full recruiting class in 2023 was ranked in the top 10 nationally and featured standout players such as Jurrion Dickey and Matayo Uiagalelei. By 2024, Lanning's class was ranked No. 3 in the nation, further cementing Oregon as a recruiting powerhouse under his leadership.

### Previous Success

Lanning's defensive expertise was on full display during his time at Georgia, where his defenses consistently ranked at the top of the nation. In 2021, Georgia’s defense, under his guidance, was historically dominant, allowing just 10.2 points per game and producing five first-round NFL Draft picks.

### Personal Life and Background

Born in North Kansas City, Missouri, Lanning played linebacker at William Jewell College, where he earned degrees in physical and secondary education. He began his coaching career at the high school level before moving into the collegiate ranks. Lanning is married to Sauphia, and they have three sons, Caden, Kniles, and Titan.

### Coaching Career Highlights

Lanning's coaching resume includes multiple stops at high-profile programs, including Alabama, Arizona State, and Georgia, where he won national titles and consistently fielded top defenses. He has extensive experience in major bowl games, with notable victories in the Peach, Sugar, and National Championship bowls.

Lanning’s tenure at Oregon promises continued growth as he builds on his early success, with high hopes for the Ducks’ future in the Big Ten and beyond.