Next in our “proof” series with Auburn head coaching candidates is Dan Lanning, head coach of the Oregon Ducks.
Our sources have confirmed that there is mutual interest between Auburn and Lanning, who has nine games as the head coach at Oregon. Other reports have confirmed that Lanning and Auburn have been in contact.
This could all be a play to get an extension from the Ducks.
Here’s a look at Lanning’s resume, why he fits on the Plains, and why the Tigers may pursue him further.
Fit
“Cultural fit” is a phrase that is often thrown around without a full understanding of its meaning. It’s not all about personality. It’s also about winning.
Culture fit varies from school to school. Some fan bases lean more towards certain people. Others, less so. Sam Pittman and Arkansas are a good example of what it means to fit the culture.
Some places don’t need the right personality to succeed. Brian Kelly and LSU are a good current example. Nick Saban wasn’t the right fit for Alabama when he started coaching the Tide.
After the last go-around with Brian Harsin, it could be argued that while the Tigers need someone who will win, they also need someone who can blend into the landscape a little better. Someone who can win the support of the fans and back it up with wins.
Dan Lanning is a tackle coach who isn’t a risk like Lane Kiffin or Hugh Freeze. Bottom row. On top of that, he’s arguably the better recruiter of the two.
The summary
Record at Oregon: 7-1
Overall score: 7-1
Head coaching experience: Oregon
Other experience: Pittsburgh (GA), Arizona State (GA/RC), Sam Houston State (DB), Alabama (GA), Memphis (ILB), Georgia (DC/OLB)
Notes: Lanning has two national championship rings as a GA for the Crimson Tide (2015) and defensive coordinator for the Bulldogs (2021). A coach cut from the Kirby Smart/Nick Saban tree now finding success at a Power Five job should be considered.
Perhaps the most impressive part of his resume is his last before Oregon: Leading one of the best defensive units of the 21st century (Georgia) to a national title. Georgia’s 2021 defense is the second-best of any team that has won a national title since 2005, behind only Alabama in 2011. That defense was legendary. Lanning could bring that side of the ball back for Auburn.
My thoughts
After losing to his former team earlier in the season, Lanning’s Oregon team has gotten better and better — and so far, has managed to overcome the Pac-12 standings. He landed six five-star commitments during his time at Georgia and has a solid recruiting record. He produced two top-three defensive units with the Bulldogs and has all the things an SEC school would want – league experience, two national titles as GA and DC, recruiting talent and a proven ability to develop talent.
He has everything except a long track record as a head coach. He can recruit, he’s a proven winner in the SEC and his personality would fit well on the Plains.
It may also be noted that former Oregon coach Willie Taggart left the Ducks in 2017 after one season to coach Florida State.
Anything is possible here with Auburn and Lanning.
Follow Lance Dawe Twitter.
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