Coach Lanning Makes the Case for Ducks in CFP Rankings: A Bold Critique of SEC Scheduling

EUGENE, Ore. — After leading Oregon to a 42-27 victory over USC, head coach Dan Lanning got playful about playoff rankings.

“We didn’t play Chattanooga State,” he said, referring to some SEC teams that chose easy non-conference games. “We compete hard. Playing nine conference games is tough.”

This matchup was one of only two ranked matchups of the week. Oregon, ranked No. 7, took care of No. 15 USC by showing off their offensive power, even without their top two receivers and a starting center. They outgained USC, finishing with 436 total yards. The Ducks also limited the Trojans to just 52 rushing yards and forced two turnovers.

Lanning emphasized his team’s versatility. “We can win in different ways. Whether it’s defensively or offensively, we can adapt,” he said.

As discussions around the College Football Playoff heat up, Lanning voiced concerns about the committee’s view of wins. “Sometimes we beat good teams that then drop out of the rankings. That’s not our fault, right?” he joked.

With a record of 10-1, Oregon sits behind one-loss teams like Georgia and Texas Tech in the CFP rankings. Their standout wins include a road victory against No. 20 Iowa, who subsequently fell out of the Top 25, and a close overtime win against Penn State before they made coaching changes. Their only loss came against No. 2 Indiana at home.

Next, Oregon faces Washington in a rivalry game that could significantly impact their playoff prospects. A win could secure a playoff game at Autzen Stadium, where they have lost only once under Lanning.

Lanning is confident. “We’ve got to seize this opportunity against a strong opponent,” he said. “If we keep performing at this level, we can continue to push for the playoffs.”

In college football, playing tough opponents is crucial. A recent survey found that 68% of fans prefer teams that challenge themselves over those that schedule easier opponents. This sentiment resonates in discussions about playoff spots, showcasing the value of competitive play.

As the playoff picture becomes clearer, how Oregon performs in this high-stakes matchup could steer their future. Each game matters more than ever in shaping their legacy this season.



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