Oregon’s Dan Lanning has emerged as a prominent name in the realm of college football discussions following the surprising retirement of Nick Saban.
At the age of just 37, Lanning may raise eyebrows as a potential successor to one of the greatest coaches in college football history. While his previous stint at Alabama as a graduate assistant lasted only a single season, he brings valuable SEC experience as the former defensive coordinator under Kirby Smart at Georgia.
What sets Lanning apart is his impressive track record during his two seasons at Oregon, where he achieved a remarkable 22-5 overall record, along with notable victories in the Holiday and Fiesta Bowls. Lanning’s prowess on the sidelines and his skills as a recruiter have garnered significant attention.
As a result, Lanning’s name is prominently featured in discussions about who might fill the shoes of the retiring Saban in Tuscaloosa.
Alabama’s Nick Saban is retiring, sources told @ActionNetworkHQ. 1st reported by@ClowESPN. Oregon’s Dan Lanning expected to be top target to replace Saban, source told @ActionNetworkHQ
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) January 10, 2024
Don’t let the fake news media push the Dan Lanning to Alabama narrative (if he leaves I’m going to cry) pic.twitter.com/mUxatCwIn5
— Justis Mosqueda (@JuMosq) January 10, 2024
In order, here’s who Bama should call IMO
Kirby Smart. Make him say no.
Dan Lanning.Dabo Swinney.
— Jeremy Birmingham (@Birm) January 10, 2024
Only 2 names would be on my list
Dan Lanning
Kalen DeboerIn that order
— Booger (@ESPNBooger) January 10, 2024
If I am Alabama, I go after Dan Lanning first.
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 10, 2024
They don’t consult me, but my first call would be Dan Lanning.
— Aaron Suttles (@AaronSuttles) January 10, 2024
It’s gonna be Dan Lanning, right?
— B1G_Ryan (@B1G_Ryan) January 10, 2024
While Lanning is not the sole candidate being considered, there appears to be substantial interest in his potential appointment.
Nick Saban, at the age of 72, is stepping down after an illustrious 17-season tenure at Alabama, capping off nearly three decades as a head coach in both college and the NFL. His legacy includes six national championships at Alabama, along with a seventh title from his earlier coaching stint at LSU in 2003.