"They accomplish this": Oregon HC Dan Lanning proud of his players following the Big Ten title game win over Penn State

Dan Lanning led Oregon to the Big Ten championship on Saturday night. The Ducks defeated Penn State 45-37 to claim the conference crown in only their first season as a member of the Big Ten conference. The win ensured the team remains the only undefeated team left in college football this season.

Following the title game victory at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Dan Lanning had appreciative words for his players in his postgame press conference. The coach also appreciated his coaching staff who have played a crucial role in navigating what he describes as a tough conference.

“I’m really proud of our players. They accomplished this. I didn’t have anything to do with it. I just need to keep the train on the tracks, and we have unbelievable leadership. We have an unbelievable coaching staff." he said.

While speaking about the Big Ten and the effort it took to win the title, he told the media:

"The Big Ten is tough, and I think tonight’s game is a great example of that. It’s a tough league. It’s hard to go out there and win, and to be able to do what our guys did tonight—I’m really proud of their effort. I thought everybody gave a little bit extra tonight.”

Dan Lanning on his goals for the playoffs

HC Dan Lanning celebrates the Big Ten Title - Source: Imagn

Following the Big Ten title success, there's a huge level of anticipation about what Oregon can do in the College Football Playoff. Dan Lanning was asked about his goals for the playoffs, in his postgame press conference on Saturday.

“I'll be honest, this is the furthest thing from my mind right now. I'm worried about tomorrow, I'm worried about the next day, the next play," Lanning said.

Speaking about his philosophy in detail, he said:

“If you start putting the end goal in sight — I don't think it's any secret what this team wants to accomplish — but you don't get there by just looking at it. It takes work. I'm thinking right now, how can we improve and get better.”

Oregon is now certain to enter the playoffs as the No. 1 seed team following their latest victory. As a conference champion, the Ducks will have a bye in the first round of the new 12-team playoff format, placing them just three victories away from the ultimate goal.

Dan Lanning won the national championship twice as an assistant coach. He was a winner in the 2015 season as a graduate assistant at Alabama. He also helped Georgia to the prize as a defensive coordinator in the 2021 season.