Dan Lanning has turned Oregon into a powerhouse — and fast. Since taking over in 2022, he’s led the Ducks to double-digit wins every year, elevated their recruiting, and brought a Big Ten title to Eugene in their first year in the conference.
The only thing missing?
A national championship. But at the rate he’s going, that might not be missing much longer.
Pro Football Focus certainly sees it that way.
In PFF’s latest “Top 10 College Football Head Coaches” rankings heading into the 2025 season, Lanning comes in at No. 4 — behind only Georgia’s Kirby Smart, Ohio State’s Ryan Day, and Clemson’s Dabo Swinney.
That’s elite company — and a clear sign of just how quickly Lanning has built something special.
“Lanning might not have a national championship like the three above him on this list, but that might only be a matter of time at the rate he’s going,” PFF wrote. “He’s won 85.4% of his games during his three seasons as the Ducks’ head coach, trailing only Day among coaches on this list.”
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That success hasn’t slowed down despite Oregon’s jump to the Big Ten — if anything, it’s only raised the bar.
“Lanning delivered Oregon a Big Ten championship during its maiden year as a member of the conference, and the Ducks were the top seed in the College Football Playoff before losing to eventual champion Ohio State in the Rose Bowl,” PFF added.
With a loaded roster returning in 2025 and momentum still building, the Ducks are squarely in the national title hunt once again.
Lanning has Oregon right where it wants to be — and if history is any indication, the best may still be ahead.
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Publish date : 2025-07-12 04:20:00
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