Dan Lanning explains fourth down decision late in game vs. Washington, takes responsibility for loss

Oregon found itself up four with just over two minutes remaining against Washington. Sitting on the opposing 47-yard line, Dan Lanning had a fourth-and-three staring him in the face. Lanning decided to roll the dice and go for it, potentially winning the game with a first down.

But Bo Nix was not able to convert, with his pass falling incomplete to Tez Johnson. Many head coaches likely would have punted the ball and made the Washington offense march 80+ yards downfield. Michael Penix Jr. had a short field instead and took the lead in 30 seconds and Oregon wound up losing the game.

Lanning had the opportunity to explain his decision in the postgame presser, saying he had confidence in his defense if the first down was not picked up. However, he understands since the offense was not able to execute, there are going to be questions about going for it.

“We felt like our defense was playing well,” Lanning said. “That being said, it didn’t work. So, obviously, that will be second-guessed.”

That was not the only fourth-down decision Lanning will likely be questioned on. Oregon passed up a couple of field goal attempts in favor of trying to get six on the board. They were not able to convert either time. A tough thing to accept when the difference wound up being three points.

With all of those decisions being coaching ones, Lanning took blame for the loss. He said if anybody is going to be pointing fingers, they should all be directed his way — something you would expect from a head coach following a tough loss.

“I think this game is 100% on me,” Lanning said. “You don’t have to look anywhere else besides me.”

No matter whose fault the Washington game is, it’s going to be a tough pill for Oregon to swallow. There was a chance to make a real statement on the road in a rivalry game. ESPN College GameDay was in town and the entire country was watching. Opportunities were present on the field as well, with a few points being left on the board.

Fortunately for Lanning, there is still plenty of football to be played. Oregon just needs to win games down the stretch and they will still have the chance to compete for the College Football Playoff. Getting back on the right track against Washington State will be the first priority first.