"Isn't afraid of competition": Oregon HC Dan Lanning reveals the key to flipping athletes in new era of CFB
The No. 1 Oregon Ducks have recruited new players for the 2025 recruiting class. On National Signing Day on Dec. 4, Oregon signed 20 athletes to join them next season. Coach Dan Lanning held a press conference afterward to discuss his recruiting method and convince players to sign with the Ducks.
Lanning spoke to the media about what he was looking for in his players to feel like they would fit on his roster.
"Our focus really as a staff is about quality over quantity. Guys we felt could make a great impact here, and I think we certainly accomplished that by the guys we were able to sign up. We really focused on character and, size, and speed. The things that matter in football, but certainly character in today's climate, I think is really important. The kind of guys you bring into your program and get really excited about," Lanning said.
The Ducks were able to keep several athletes from joining other programs, including cornerback Na'eem Offord, who was committed to the No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes. Lanning shared that having a purpose for his players and being successful helps convince talent to join Oregon.
"Consistency and having a clear vision for what you want to be able to create for guys, and I don't think there's any secret too that all these guys that signed up to be a part of what we are doing here right now recognize that they want to be a part of a winner and that's what you want. You want to get guys that can compete. To go win. Every one of these guys isn't afraid of competition, which I think is something exciting," Lanning said.
"I think they're excited": Dan Lanning shares team reaction to Oregon recruitment class
Lanning was asked how his current roster felt about the new team members joining next year. He shared that they are excited about the 2025 recruiting class.
However, Oregon (12-0, 9-0 Big Ten) wants to stay focused on their Big 10 Championship Game against the No. 3 Penn State Nittany Lions (11-1, 8-1) on Dec. 7.
"I think they're excited, but they're a lot more focused right now on this game we got coming up on Saturday, and that's part of the chaos with college football. What I love about our players on our team is that they do as good of a job recruiting talent to our team as anybody," Lanning said.
He mentioned that his players talk highly about their experience to prospects, which can sway someone to commit. That said, Oregon is trying to look ahead to facing Penn State and getting a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff.