Fall camp is wrapping up, and we’re nine days out from Week 1 against Portland State, which means the Oregon Ducks’ season is almost upon us. On Wednesday, Dan Lanning spoke to the media about their preparation for Portland State and how the team is looking after fall camp.
Offensively, Lanning wanted to highlight how the team has improved its execution since the spring and last season. When asked about the way the team has improved, he had this to say about the strengths of the offense:
“Recognizing and being able to execute plays at a high level, everybody knowing their assignment, their job, and still, there’s room for improvement in both of those areas.”
That’s a pretty vague answer, but there are a few things that it could mean. Consistency along the offensive line is one possibility, especially because that is something that has been mentioned throughout camp and the offseason. In order for an offense to execute, they need a solid O-line, run or pass.
Another thing it could suggest is that Bo Nix is throwing the ball well. That is something we already know he does at a high level, but if offensive execution has been a strength, Bo Nix and his right arm have to fit under that umbrella.
When answering the same question about the defense Lanning had a much shorter response:
“I think overall, as a team, we’re tackling better.”
Another thing we’ve heard a lot this offseason is how this team — and specifically this defense — is a more physical one than we saw last year. The obvious advantage of that is improved tackling. Tackling ballcarriers was a struggle area for the Ducks last year and was a contributing factor to the late-season loss to Oregon State.
One interesting aspect of having a defense that has improved its tackling and is generally more physical is that it allows Lanning to showcase his expertise as a defensive-minded head coach from the SEC — a league that emphasizes consistency on defense, especially when it comes to tackling.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3]