Dan Lanning sends strong message about Alabama rumors
Oct 8, 2022; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dan Lanning was viewed by many as the favorite to become the next head coach at Alabama after Nick Saban retired, but that is not going to happen.
Lanning shared a video on social media Thursday in which he declared that he is not leaving Oregon. The clip featured a team meeting where Lanning was speaking to Ducks players about accomplishing their goals by “worrying about what’s right in front of you.” The script over the video sent a very strong message and read as follows:
“If you’re scared your coach is leaving … then come play for us … the Ducks aren’t going anywhere … and I’m not leaving.”
— Dan Lanning (@CoachDanLanning) January 11, 2024
Lanning was immediately mentioned as Alabama’s top target once Saban announced his retirement. There were rumblings that the 37-year-old was already in Tuscaloosa, and oddsmakers listed him as the overwhelming favorite to replace Saban.
Back in November, Lanning gave an extremely strong response to the rumors that he might leave Oregon. That was before anyone could have anticipated the Alabama job becoming available, but Lanning is sticking to what he said.
Lanning has been the head coach at Oregon the last two seasons. He has an overall record of 22-5 and produced double-digit wins in both years.
Lanning is from Missouri and has SEC experience, which is why he was viewed as a logical fit for Alabama. Crimson Tide fans will now have to focus their attention elsewhere.