Dan Lanning’s Bold Offseason Bet That Could Make or Break Oregon’s 2025 Title Hopes

Dan Lanning’s Bold Offseason Bet That Could Make or Break Oregon’s 2025 Title Hopes

Dan Lanning isn’t playing it safe this offseason—and that could either cement Oregon’s place as a national powerhouse or leave the Ducks scrambling come September.

According to multiple program sources and spring practice reports, Lanning is taking a calculated risk by doubling down on youth across both sides of the ball. With several veteran starters gone to the NFL, many expected Oregon to lean heavily on the transfer portal to plug holes. But instead, Lanning has surprised insiders by pushing several underclassmen into first-team reps and reshaping the team’s core from within.

The most eyebrow-raising move? Giving the green light to redshirt freshman quarterback Malik Daniels to compete head-to-head with returning starter Dillon Gabriel. Daniels, an electric dual-threat from California, wowed in spring scrimmages—so much so that Lanning reportedly told staff, “If he’s ready, we ride with him.”

That philosophy extends beyond quarterback. Word from Eugene is that a trio of true sophomores may start at key defensive positions, signaling a shift toward speed, aggression, and long-term development—even if that means some growing pains early.

Why take the risk? It’s simple: Lanning isn’t just building for a playoff run—he’s building a culture. Betting on youth sends a message to recruits: come here, and you’ll play early. Come here, and you’ll matter.

Still, with a brutal early-season schedule and expectations sky-high, Lanning’s gamble could define the 2025 season. If his young guns rise to the moment, Oregon could be terrifying by November. But if inexperience costs them in September?

The bold bet could come back to haunt them.