Dan Lanning Previews Illinois, Recaps Purdue
Oregon coach Dan Lanning met with media Monday ahead of a top-20 matchup between the Ducks and visiting Illinois and addressed what he saw from the Purdue game, Illinois’ strengths, and more. Below are the most notable questions and quotes from Lanning’s presser as well as my thoughts at the end.
Opening Statement
“Excited to get back at it. Certainly a fun road trip. Pleased with how our guys performed and they’ve already started attacking this week. Watching his (Bret Bielema) teams they have a clear identity and I think that shows up with this team so it’ll be a fun challenge for us.”
On what he saw watching tape from Oregon vs Purdue:
“I think we had some really good moments. I’m proud of guys upholding the standard when they got their opportunity to play. There are plenty of things that we can go attack and improve on though.”
On what Illinois does well as a team:
“Attacking the ball and protecting the ball. They’re a team that swarms and they’ve out-rushed several of their opponents. They’re really sound in special teams with dynamic returners and they’re playing complementary football.”
On wide receiver Pat Bryant:
“Really talented on both sides at wideout. They have a really balanced passing attack and they do a great job taking shots down the field.”
On similarities between offensive coordinators Will Stein and Barry Lunney Jr.:
“I think you see flavors. They come from a similar tree and there’s some carryover from what Will’s doing here and what Barry is doing there.”
On quarterback Luke Altmeyer‘s skillset:
“He’s a guy that causes a lot of issues with his athleticism. He’s been a good decision-maker which is obvious having only thrown one interception. He gives his guys an opportunity to make plays on the ball as well.”
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On Illinois’ offensive line:
“They have proven to be a physical team that’s interested in establishing the run and keeping balance. It’s a group that plays really well together and you can tell they’re in sync.”
On what being ranked first means to him:
“Who cares?”
On keeping players focused while ranked No. 1:
“Our messaging hasn’t changed. You don’t sit halfway through a meal and say you’re done eating. There’s a lot we still want to accomplish.”
Linden’s Take
This was a shorter presser than usual as there weren’t many injury notes or concerns to address from Oregon’s Friday game against Purdue. Lanning clearly has respect for what Bielema has done with this Illinois squad which would be hard not to given their 6-1 record.
I wasn’t the least bit surprised to hear him say he doesn’t care about being ranked first as this team’s culture from the moment he arrived has been about blocking out noise and keeping things process-oriented. I think this sets up to be a fun matchup for the Ducks that will likely add to their already strong resume.
