Oregon football head coach Dan Lanning did not mince words when discussing the upcoming Rose Bowl game. Known as “The Granddaddy of Them All,” this year’s edition features a high-stakes rematch between the Ducks and the Ohio State Buckeyes in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. Oregon narrowly defeated its Big Ten rival earlier this season in a thrilling one-point game. Now, as the No. 1 team in the country, the Ducks face a tough path to their first national championship. Despite the challenges, Lanning and his team remain resolute in their approach.
Speaking in a pre-Rose Bowl Zoom interview with NBC Sports Lead College Football Reporter Nicole Auerbach, Lanning emphasized his team’s readiness. “Getting the opportunity to play great teams is what it’s all about,” he said. Oregon’s football program is using the perceived disrespect as fuel for their preparation. It’s surprising that the nation’s top-ranked team has faced so much skepticism. Oregon’s remarkable season included going undefeated in its inaugural year in the Big Ten and defeating three College Football Playoff teams, all of which are now in the quarterfinals. Despite these accomplishments, Ohio State, fresh off a home win over an injury-plagued Tennessee team, enters the Rose Bowl as the favorite.
Critics point out that Tennessee was without its star offensive player, Dylan Sampson, during the game in Columbus. Yet, the odds continue to underestimate Oregon’s dominance. Led by the nation’s best quarterback, Dillon Gabriel, the Ducks have every reason to feel confident heading into their most important game of the season. Head coach Dan Lanning thrives in these moments, embracing the underdog narrative to motivate his players further.
For Oregon to succeed, they will need to replicate the formula that led to their October victory: contain the run game, apply consistent pressure on quarterback Will Howard, and limit Ohio State’s receivers from creating explosive plays. However, Oregon has proven its versatility. In their Big Ten Championship win over Penn State, the Ducks demonstrated their ability to win a shootout, showcasing a balanced offense that can score against any defense in the nation.
This resilience is where Oregon excels. Tight games, which often expose Ohio State’s vulnerabilities, play to the Ducks’ strengths. Notably, the Buckeyes’ two losses this season came by a combined margin of just four points. The stage is set for a fierce battle, and the Rose Bowl could mark the end of Oregon’s extraordinary season. But Lanning and his team are not backing down.
After a chaotic week where road teams across the board faltered, Oregon is focused on silencing the doubters. With their unwavering mentality and championship aspirations, the Ducks are ready to face their biggest test yet.
