Despite entering the game as the nation’s No. 1-ranked team and the sole undefeated contender in the College Football Playoff (CFP), Oregon’s worst fears materialized on Wednesday night. The Ducks, led by head coach Dan Lanning, suffered a humbling 41-21 defeat in the CFP quarterfinals at the iconic Rose Bowl against Ohio State. This highly anticipated showdown was a rematch of one of the most thrilling games of the regular season, where Oregon had edged out the Buckeyes 32-31 in Eugene. However, this time around, the contest was far from competitive, as Ohio State dominated from the outset, surging to an insurmountable 34-0 lead by the second quarter.
Ohio State came out swinging, leaving Oregon reeling as they established their dominance early. For the Ducks, it was a complete departure from their usual form. Despite their reputation for explosive and balanced offense throughout the season, they were unable to replicate that prowess on this crucial stage. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel faced relentless pressure in the pocket, with his receivers struggling to create separation and the running game failing to find any rhythm. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s offense, led by quarterback Will Howard and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, was firing on all cylinders, and their defense suffocated any attempts by Oregon to gain traction. At one point in the first half, the Buckeyes outgained the Ducks by over 300 yards, underscoring their utter dominance.
Dan Lanning Reflects on a Disappointing Performance
Head coach Dan Lanning, known for his meticulous preparation and fiery leadership, was candid in assessing his team’s performance. Speaking to NBC Sports’ Nicole Auerbach, Lanning admitted, “Sometimes it’s not your day. I think that was us today. It wasn’t our day today. It wasn’t their day against Michigan.”
While fans and analysts alike speculated on potential factors contributing to Oregon’s uncharacteristic showing—such as the long layoff since their Big Ten Championship victory over Penn State on December 7—Lanning refused to lean on such explanations. “That’s an excuse,” he said, dismissing the notion. “I thought our guys prepared well going in. An opportunity that we had to recharge. I thought our guys did practice well. I thought they had a great focus. I just don’t think our plan was good enough.”
Lanning’s remarks reflect his accountability and determination to shoulder the responsibility for his team’s shortcomings. The Ducks, who had been a model of consistency and excellence throughout the season, appeared unprepared and overwhelmed for the first time, raising questions about their readiness for the high-stakes intensity of the CFP.
A Stunning Fall for a Dominant Oregon Team
This defeat was all the more shocking given Oregon’s exceptional season leading up to the Rose Bowl. Their offense had been a nightmare for opponents, seamlessly blending a punishing ground game with explosive passing plays. Defensively, the Ducks had relied on their athletic front seven and a speedy secondary to stymie opposing teams. Yet, against Ohio State, those strengths were nowhere to be found. The Buckeyes ran circles around Oregon, exposing weaknesses that had gone largely unnoticed throughout the season.
Some fans pointed to the contrasting schedules of the two teams as a possible factor. Ohio State, fresh off a dominant win over Tennessee in the first round of the CFP on December 21, appeared sharper and more prepared. Conversely, Oregon’s extended break seemed to rob them of their edge. However, Lanning dismissed these claims, instead focusing on his team’s execution—or lack thereof. “We didn’t execute at the level we’re capable of, and that’s on us as a coaching staff,” he said.
The Road Ahead for Oregon
For Lanning and the Ducks, the loss serves as a harsh wake-up call. After an extraordinary season that saw them rise to the top of the rankings and capture the Big Ten title, their abrupt and lopsided exit from the CFP underscores the challenges of sustaining success at the highest level. The Ducks will need to reassess their approach and ensure they are better prepared for similar high-pressure moments in the future.
Despite the disappointment, there is no doubt that Oregon remains one of college football’s elite programs. With Lanning’s leadership and a talented roster, the Ducks have the potential to return to the CFP and make amends in the years to come. However, the sting of this loss will linger, serving as both a painful memory and a powerful motivator as they aim to build on their successes and avoid such missteps in the future.
Oregon HC Dan Lanning uses Michigan to explain embarrassing night vs. Ohio State
