Locker Room Struggles and Defensive Missteps: Dan Lanning on Oregon’s Setback Against Buckeyes
In the aftermath of the Oregon Ducks’ 41-21 loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2025, head coach Dan Lanning addressed the media to discuss the team’s performance and the atmosphere in the locker room before the game.
Lanning began by acknowledging the team’s shortcomings, stating, “They clicked tonight, we didn’t. I didn’t get our team prepared, and that’s a great team. When you play a great team like Ohio State, you can’t not be clicking on all cylinders.”
Regarding the pre-game locker room environment, Lanning noted that the team was focused and motivated. He mentioned that the players were aware of the significance of the game and were eager to perform at their best. However, he admitted that the preparation might not have fully addressed the challenges posed by Ohio State’s dynamic offense and defense.
The Ducks faced difficulties from the outset, falling behind early and struggling to contain Ohio State’s explosive plays. Lanning took responsibility for the defensive lapses, particularly in handling Ohio State’s star receiver, Jeremiah Smith, who amassed 187 yards and two touchdowns.
In the locker room at halftime, with the Ducks trailing significantly, Lanning emphasized the importance of resilience and playing with pride. He encouraged his players to focus on executing their assignments and to fight for every opportunity in the second half. Despite a more competitive performance after the break, the deficit proved insurmountable.
Post-game, Lanning expressed his disappointment but also his pride in the team’s overall season performance, stating, “There’s disappointment, but I talked to the team about life in that locker room and how grateful I am for the opportunity to coach this team. I love these guys. And they put it all out on the field for us, blood, sweat, and tears.”
Looking ahead, Lanning emphasized the need for reflection and growth. He mentioned that the experience against a high-caliber team like Ohio State provides valuable lessons that can be used to improve strategies and preparations for future high-stakes games.
In conclusion, while the loss was a setback for the Oregon Ducks, Coach Lanning remains optimistic about the team’s potential. He is committed to addressing the issues highlighted during the game and is focused on guiding the team to bounce back stronger in the upcoming season.
