"Sit back and watch": When Dan Lanning issued a strong statement after his move from Georgia to Oregon

After serving as an assistant at Alabama, Memphis and Georgia, Dan Lanning was hired as Oregon’s head coach in December 2021, shortly. He replaced Mario Cristobal, who left for Miami, in Eugene. He helped the Bulldogs win the national championship before taking over the Ducks.

Being his first head coaching job in college football, there were a lot of doubts about his ability to lead a program like Oregon to glory in the competitive landscape. However, Dan Lanning had a lot of confidence in himself and he made this known in his appearance on “SportsCenter.”

“Sit back and watch,” Lanning answered when questioned by Elle Duncan on the doubts people have in him (time stamp 2:50). “I'm excited. This is a great opportunity. We've got a great group of players that I'm excited to coach, and I think time will tell.”

Why Dan Lanning felt Oregon was the right spot

Taking up a first head coaching job is a huge challenge for many coaches in the world of college football. It requires finding the right spot to thrive and build something great.

Speaking further in the interview on SportsCenter, Dan Lanning was questioned by Elle Duncan on why he feels Oregon was a brilliant spot for him to start his head coaching career. The coach gave a brief but detailed answer to that.

“Because I remember watching Marcus Mariota run all over me when I was at ASU, and I want some of that speed,” Lanning answered jokingly. (time stamp 2:18)

“Oregon is a premier brand. It's a team that it doesn't matter what spot in the nation you're at, you recognize it. For me, I never wanted to leave Georgia for anything less than a job that I thought was an elite one and this is that.”

Dan Lanning on staying with Georgia through the playoffs

Dan Lanning was hired by Oregon following the conclusion of the regular season. However, he stayed on with Georgia through the College Football Playoff run, going on to win the national championship. He explains the decision on SportsCenter.

“Ultimately, it was never a decision,” Lanning said (time stamp 1:07). I wouldn't be in this situation if it wasn't for our players, and it would be totally unfair to our guys if I left for this opportunity and didn't finish what we started. I'm grateful that Coach Smart would let me come back and help.”

Without a doubt, the experience at Georgia prepared him for Oregon. After helping Kirby Smart win his first national championship in Athens, he went on to begin a journey of his own in Eugene.