In anticipation of Saturday’s massive top-three showdown between Oregon and Ohio State, Ducks head coach Dan Lanning expressed high praise for Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly.
Kelly, a familiar name in Eugene, spent four seasons as Oregon’s head coach, guiding the Ducks to their first-ever national championship game appearance.
Now, he returns to Autzen Stadium with the No. 2 Buckeyes as they prepare to face the No. 3 Ducks in the headlining game of the best Saturday of the college football regular season.
Lanning fielded several questions about Kelly, the man who once revolutionized Oregon football. Reflecting on Kelly’s coaching strengths, Lanning commended his ability to maximize his players’ talents.
“I think he’s always done a great job of using his personnel, moving guys around, and allowing them to do things that they do really well,” Lanning said.
He also pointed out Kelly’s underrated knack for the ground game: “He always finds unique ways to run the ball. I think that’s one thing he probably doesn’t get enough credit for—his ability to run the ball regardless of the situation.”
This season, Kelly’s offense has been highly productive, with Ohio State averaging 222.2 rushing yards per game, significantly outpacing Oregon’s 164.4.
Lanning emphasized that to win, the Ducks must contain Ohio State’s potent rushing attack, as well as their standout receivers, Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka, who have combined for more than 800 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns this year.
Kelly’s offensive strategy continues to evolve, and Lanning noted how the veteran coach keeps defenses on their heels.
“He does a great job utilizing personnel, keeping you on your toes, changing the tempos, and creating unique formations that you’ve never seen on film before,” he said. “So, you always have to prepare for something you haven’t really prepared for.”
No disrespect to Ohio State’s prior opponents, but the Buckeyes will clearly take a step up in class on Saturday when they face the Ducks.
While Lanning’s team is right where they want to be in the big picture, the fact of the matter is they haven’t been as dominant as expected thus far.
With the stakes ultra-high, it’s safe to assume that Kelly has a few extra tricks up his sleeve for Saturday.
In addition to talking about Kelly’s current success at Ohio State, Lanning reflected on the legacy he left at Oregon.
“I remember the teams that he had here,” Lanning recalled. “I think everybody respects him as a football coach and certainly the things that he was able to accomplish while he was here.”
During his time in Eugene, Kelly compiled a 41-7 record and led the Ducks to their first Rose Bowl victory in 94 years.
Kickoff for the massive clash is scheduled for 7:30pm EST (4:30pm local).
What are your thoughts on Lanning’s comments? … More importantly, what is your prediction for the big game???