Dan Lanning Not Satisfied After Oregon’s CFP Win Over JMU

The Oregon Ducks are moving on in the College Football Playoff, but head coach Dan Lanning made it clear the performance wasn’t something to celebrate for long.

Oregon defeated James Madison 51–34 in the first round of the College Football Playoff at Autzen Stadium, jumping out to a massive 34–6 lead by halftime. Early on, everything clicked. The Ducks scored on nearly every possession in the first half and looked like they were on their way to a stress-free blowout.

Then the second half happened.

James Madison adjusted, went aggressive through the air, and scored 28 second-half points against the No. 5 Ducks. Oregon held on to win, but the defensive breakdowns and stalled drives raised concerns — and Lanning didn’t hide his frustration afterward.

Dan Lanning described the game as mixed emotions, saying the team showed strong moments in the first half but failed to meet its usual level of play after halftime.

Dan Lanning credited JMU for making adjustments after halftime and was blunt about Oregon’s failure to respond. He pointed to explosive plays allowed on defense and an inability to get off the field on third down as major issues.

Despite the uneven finish, Oregon’s offense had plenty of positives. The Ducks rushed for 201 yards and two touchdowns, something Dan Lanning said helped keep the offense on schedule.

Quarterback Dante Moore also delivered one of the best performances of his career. Moore completed 19 of 27 passes for 313 yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions. While Dan Lanning acknowledged Moore would want a couple throws back, he praised his ability to handle pressure and execute the game plan.

Wide receiver Malik Benson was another bright spot. Benson caught five passes for 119 yards and two touchdowns, continuing his strong finish to the season.

Special teams also made key plays, including a blocked kick and a blocked punt, which helped Oregon maintain control during key moments.

Still, Lanning made it clear that advancing isn’t enough. When asked how he felt emotionally after the win, he declined to describe it. And when asked what the team is ready to do next, his answer was simple.

“Go to work.”

Oregon now turns its attention to the next round of the College Football Playoff. The Ducks will face the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Orange Bowl, which serves as a CFP quarterfinal.

The game will be played on New Year’s Day, with kickoff scheduled for around 12 p.m. ET (9 a.m. PST). The matchup will air nationally on ESPN, giving Oregon another chance to prove it belongs among college football’s elite — this time for a full four quarters.

Also Read: Fans Rip Ref After Sideline Call Nearly Hurts Alabama in CFP Win