Dan Lanning, Once College Football’s Rising Star, Is Set to Face His Unlikely Foil

Dan Lanning, head coach of the Oregon Ducks, is aiming to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) championship, but faces a significant challenge in the form of Curt Cignetti's Indiana Hoosiers. Lanning, at 39, has led Oregon to a 48–7 record over four seasons, including three consecutive Top 10 finishes. However, he has yet to claim a national title, with previous setbacks against teams like Washington and Ohio State.

In the 2023 season, Oregon's sole loss came against Indiana, a team led by 64-year-old Cignetti, who has quickly risen to prominence in college football. The two teams are set to face off again in the Peach Bowl CFP semifinal, with the winner advancing to the championship game.

Historically, teams losing a regular-season matchup have often triumphed in subsequent rematches within the playoffs. Oregon hopes to follow this trend against Indiana, despite the Hoosiers being favored by