Everything Dan Lanning said ahead of Oregon’s road showdown with USC
Summary
Injury: Oregon coach Dan Lanning met with reporters Monday to put the Ducks' 84-0 win over Portland State in perspective and begin looking ahead to Saturday's Big Ten opener at USC.
Oregon coach Dan Lanning met with reporters Monday to put the Ducks' 84-0 win over Portland State in perspective and begin looking ahead to Saturday's Big Ten opener at USC.
Lanning said Oregon was able to take several meaningful things from Friday's blowout despite the obvious talent disparity, especially the opportunity to get younger players valuable game experience. He also pointed to areas Oregon had emphasized after its loss at Oklahoma State, including cleaner execution, improved operation and more creativity in the run game. Penalties, however, remain an area the Ducks must continue to address.
The conversation quickly shifted toward USC and what Lanning expects to be a significant challenge at the Coliseum. He praised quarterback Jayden Maiava's ability to extend plays and give his receivers opportunities downfield, while also noting an improved USC offensive line and a physical running game.
Defensively, Lanning said the Ducks will need discipline against an explosive passing attack and stressed the importance of playing the ball properly in the secondary.
Lanning also provided several injury updates. Wide receiver Jeremiah McClellan suffered a broken foot during pregame warmups against Portland State and will miss time. Kendre and Jamari are expected to increase their practice workload this week, while Carl Williams IV should return. Jalen Lott has also resumed practicing, though Lanning said he does not expect him to play Saturday.
And while Lanning avoided discussing postseason scenarios, he made clear Oregon understands the magnitude of the matchup.
"It's certainly not just another game," Lanning said.
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Oregon
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