Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano gives an honest assessment about Dan Lanning and the Oregon Ducks ahead of their first ever matchup
Greg Schiano had nothing but positive things to say about the Oregon Ducks.
As Rutgers prepares to host one of its most formidable opponents of the season, head coach Greg Schiano had nothing but praise for Dan Lanning and the Oregon Ducks during his Monday press conference. The Scarlet Knights will face the Ducks on Saturday in front of a sold-out crowd at SHI Stadium, and Schiano made it clear that his team understands the challenge ahead.
“We’re getting ready for what amounts to a really, really good Oregon team,” Schiano said. “They’ve been in the top 10 for 38 straight weeks, so I don’t know if you have to say anymore than that, but I will. They’re very talented, big, strong and very, very fast. Probably the fastest team we’ve played in a while.”
Schiano went on to commend Oregon’s coaching staff for the consistency and preparation that have become hallmarks of Lanning’s tenure. “Coach Lanning does a great job. He and his staff, not only are they very talented, but they’re very well coached,” Schiano added. “They present a lot of schematic issues and they’re very efficient in situational football. My hats off to them, they’re doing a great job.”
The Rutgers head coach also highlighted Oregon’s balance on both sides of the ball, noting that the Ducks rank among the nation’s best in scoring offense and defense. “Top 15 in both scoring offense and defense,” Schiano said. “I think their special teams are very well coached and they challenge you at every turn. They’re very talented.”
Saturday’s matchup will mark Oregon’s first-ever visit to Piscataway as a member of the Big Ten, and Rutgers will look to feed off the energy of a home sellout crowd. Schiano expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, saying, “It’s something that I know our whole program is excited about having the opportunity. It’s great to be back home and be with our fans. We’ve already announced a sellout, which is exciting.”
When asked about Oregon’s strong NIL operation and the perceived gap between the two programs, Schiano took a grounded and forward-looking approach. “How wide the gap is really doesn’t matter. That’s where we find ourselves today,” he said. “There have always been haves and have-nots, but I think those gaps are starting to close. I believe our leadership fully understands what’s necessary, and we’re moving in the right direction.”
Schiano’s tone throughout the press conference reflected respect and resolve — admiration for one of the nation’s elite programs, and confidence in Rutgers’ steady growth under his leadership.
