From Oregon Ducks On SI · · 2m
Oregon Ducks Coach Lanning Adapts Offense Amid Injuries
Oregon's coach Lanning simplifies offense as injuries mount, aiming for younger players to step up.
In brief
Oregon's coach Lanning simplifies offense as injuries mount, aiming for younger players to step up. Oregon Ducks coach Dan Lanning keeps offense simple to help younger players succeed as key receivers and quarterbacks remain injured. Originally reported by Oregon Ducks On SI.
Oregon Ducks Injuries
Oregon Ducks coach Dan Lanning has been open about 2026 season challenges as injuries mount.
Key Players Out
Quarterback Dante Moore and wide receivers Evan Stewart and Jeremiah McClellan are listed 'Out' on Oregon's first availability report.
Ducks' Passing Game
In the 17-14 win over Nebraska, receiver Dakorien Moore logged 14 targets and seven receptions.
Young Receivers Step Up
Younger receivers like Messiah Hampton, Jalen Lott, and Gatlin Bair could see their roles increase.
Lanning on Passing Game
Lanning stressed keeping Oregon’s offense simple as injuries mount, giving younger players a chance to master fundamentals.
Lanning's Quote
Lanning said: 'Yeah, I think you got to go back to your roots of, like, what is our system?What's that look like?
“"Yeah, I think you got to go back to your roots of, like, what is our system? What's that look like? What's you got to make it simple for players rather than you know packaging multiple things. Maybe this is a good answer versus multiple cover, right?"”
Lanning's Next Quote
Lanning added: 'And ask our guys to be able to execute that at a high level, hold the standard higher.'
“"And ask our guys to be able to execute that at a high level, hold the standard higher, right? Are we finishing in a dominant position? Are we blocking on the perimeter the way we need to? Are we attacking the ball and really coach the fundamentals?"”
Lanning's Final Quote
Lanning said: 'Sometimes the best third-down play is an opportunity to still have the ball and punt it away.'
“"I think a lot of people start to coach scheme more in those moments, and then again, an awareness of your team, recognize your strengths, be able to play into that. And that doesn't always mean, sometimes the best third-down play is an opportunity to still have the ball and punt it away, right?"”
Quarterback Situation
Lanning and the Ducks have not announced which quarterback will start against Illinois, but Dylan Raiola may get the nod.
Raiola's Role
Dylan Raiola entered the game in the second half and provided a spark for the Oregon offense after Thomas started against Nebraska.
Illinois Game Impact
The Ducks can't afford to lose another game to keep College Football Playoff hopes alive.
Injury Timeline Unknown
A timeline on returns of Dante Moore, Stewart, and McClellan is currently unknown.
Game Date
Oregon vs. Illinois kicks off at 12 p.m. PT on Saturday, Oct. 24.
The big picture
Oregon Ducks coach Dan Lanning keeps offense simple to help younger players succeed as key receivers and quarterbacks remain injured.
