Dan Lanning describes how he envisions Oregon offensive philosophy

With the Oregon Ducks hiring Dan Lanning away from Georgia, the elite defense the Pac-12 school has been playing should remain the same. Former head coach Mario Cristobal recruited multiple five-star prospects within the front seven, giving Lanning plenty to work with.

However, one of the most telling signs of how his tenure in Eugune will go is the offensive production. Ever since Justin Herbert left for the NFL, the Duck offense has seemed stagnant and run-heavy.

Lanning was asked about his offensive philosophy while being head coach at Oregon. He said everything boils down to explosive plays and wants them throughout all the phases of the game.

“Ultimately, I think teams that can have a balanced approach but attacks weaknesses — that attacks every ounce and inch of the field — that’s going to be really important for us,” Lanning said. “The No. 1 indicator right now in college football in wins and losses is explosive plays. We’re going to be a team that’s built off explosive plays on offense, defense, and special teams. You have to be able to push the ball down the field, you have to be able to attack in the air and on the ground. That’s definitely going to be a part of our approach here.”

Oregon ran into problems with the offense down the stretch of the season, getting bullied by the Utah defense during the regular season and the Pac-12 championship. One of Lanning’s top priorities will be finding an offensive coordinator to run a balanced, efficient offense.

Lanning dealing with Oregon and Georgia at the same time

Before fully turning his attention to the Oregon job, Lanning still has to coach Georgia in the College Football Playoff. During his introductory press conference, he explained how he would pull off the double duty.

“I’m willing to negotiate for some more hours in the day. We’re running out of hours,” Lanning said with a smile. “First off, I’ll say there’s tremendous support here at the University of Oregon. I’m fortunate that there’s tremendous support there at Georgia for this approach. I feel like I owe it to our players there and excited to be a part of that process. The College Football Playoff is certainly unique, but you just work. And that’s the only thing I know how to do is roll up my sleeves and work.”

The Bulldogs will play on Dec. 31 against the Michigan Wolverines in the Orange Bowl. With a loss, Lanning can join the Ducks right as the New Year began. If Georgia pulls off a win, the national championship is scheduled for Jan. 10.