The Oregon Ducks’ undefeated season came to an end Saturday in Seattle with a 36-33 loss to the Washington Huskies.
It was close and competitive throughout, but some Oregon head coach Dan Lanning’s play calls have come under fire on social media.
The Ducks failed to convert on three fourth downs in the loss, the final time coming when they had the ball across midfield with just over two minutes left and decided to go for it instead of punting on a fourth-and-three. Quarterback Bo Nix threw an incomplete pass, giving Washington the ball in premium field position.
Washington takes a 36-33 lead over Oregon! What a game! 🏈pic.twitter.com/guvmEehn0w
— The Comeback (@thecomeback) October 14, 2023
In a game Oregon lost by three, every decision will be magnified even more than usual, and Lanning’s decisions are certainly standing out.
One fan also pointed out that Lanning is now a combined 0-3 against Oregon State and Washington and had leads in all three games that the Ducks blew.
0-3 against his biggest rivals
Coaching decisions directly led to 2 loses vs Washington
Blew a 31-10 lead vs an Oregon State who couldn't throw the ball.
Dan Lanning's legacy at Oregon. pic.twitter.com/Yq3JBJYzUN
— Chris in Tacoma (@Chatham253) October 14, 2023
After the game, Lanning acknowledged that he should have had Oregon kick a field goal on the final play of the fhirst half instead of going for it and throwing an incompletion as time expired.
Dan Lanning asked about the 4th downs, says the one before half is one he looks back on and thinks about taking the field goal. pic.twitter.com/4NXOdfKgnH
— Chris Vannini (@ChrisVannini) October 14, 2023
Lanning took the blame for the loss after the game, saying, “I think this game is 100% on me.”
Dan Lanning: "I think this game is 100% on me."
— James Crepea (@JamesCrepea) October 14, 2023
One fan tweeted, “Seems like Dan Lanning was fighting too hard for clicks today, not wins.” A reference to Lanning’s pregame speech about Colorado prior to Oregon’s Week 4 win.
Seems like Dan Lanning was fighting too hard for clicks today, not wins.
— Jordan Ramirez (@JRAM) October 14, 2023
