Podcast Summary: The Triple Option – Episode: Oregon Head Coach Dan Lanning, Florida State Upset, Early Heisman Candidates, and Week 1 Predictions

Release Date: August 28, 2024

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Triple Option, hosts Urban Meyer, Mark Ingram II, and Rob Stone delve into a multitude of pressing topics shaping the current football landscape. From dissecting Florida State's unexpected loss to Georgia Tech to an insightful conversation with Oregon Head Coach Dan Lanning, the episode offers fans a comprehensive look into the sport's evolving dynamics. Additionally, the hosts explore early Heisman Trophy contenders and provide their predictions for Week 1 matchups.

Florida State's Upset by Georgia Tech

The episode kicks off with a deep dive into Florida State's surprising defeat at the hands of Georgia Tech in Dublin, Ireland.

• Game Analysis:

  • Rob Stone [06:03]: "Georgia Tech... delivered a screen pass and Florida State does not get them down and they get it down to a 44-yard field goal."
  • Urban Meyer [05:15]: "Four to six, A to B. Four to six is the length of a play, four to six seconds and A to B. There's always a starting point A and a finish point B."

• Key Insights:

  • The critical loss stemmed from a pivotal 10-yard setback that pushed Florida State out of field goal range (44 yards), allowing Georgia Tech to clinch the game with a precise kick.
  • Urban Meyer emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and executing under pressure, noting, “Effort overcomes mistakes.”

• Impact on Playoff Aspirations:

  • Urban Meyer [13:01]: "I don't think they can make the playoff mark if they lose again."
  • The setback poses significant challenges for Florida State's playoff hopes, especially with a tough schedule ahead, including a game against Miami.

Interview with Oregon Head Coach Dan Lanning

A standout segment features an in-depth interview with Dan Lanning, the head coach of the Oregon Ducks.

• Coaching Philosophy:

  • Dan Lanning [19:34]: "I'm more interested in changing those lineups up until you get... how many players you have above the line to play winning football."
  • Lanning discusses his emphasis on versatility and maximizing the use of his roster by rotating players to find the most effective combinations.

• Conference Realignment and Its Effects:

  • Transitioning from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten brings logistical challenges such as increased travel distances.
  • Dan Lanning [25:08]: "I just think when you get to that week to be able to play those guys. But unique thing now in college football is there's a chance you could play that team multiple times."

• Recruiting and Resources:

  • Backed by Phil Knight and the Nike brand, Oregon benefits from substantial resources, enhancing their recruiting capabilities.
  • Dan Lanning [21:22]: "Phil and Penny have always been unbelievable supporters of Oregon."

• Managing Team Dynamics:

  • Lanning highlights the importance of inter-coach communication and fostering a cohesive team environment.
  • Dan Lanning [18:05]: "We want both sides of the ball hearing the issues with each coverage or the issues with each side and how can we make it harder?"

• Leadership and Personal Touch:

  • Sharing personal anecdotes about his family's involvement in football, Lanning underscores the importance of nurturing young talent.
  • Dan Lanning [32:39]: "He's my young boss. So shout out to the Titans of the world. Man, they legendary."

Early Heisman Trophy Candidates

The conversation shifts to evaluating potential early Heisman contenders for the season.

• Top Contenders Discussed:

  • Mark Ingram [43:32]: Highlights Carson Beck (Georgia), Dylan Gabriel (Oregon), Will Howard (Ohio State), Quinn Ewers (Texas), Jalen Milroe (Alabama), among others.
  • Urban Meyer [41:03]: Emphasizes the significance of team dynamics in individual accolades, stating, “It’s a team award as well.”

• Criteria for Heisman Candidacy:

  • Exceptional individual performance coupled with team success.
  • Urban Meyer [40:03]: "We were lucky to have guys... It's also the coach's responsibility... to make sure you get them touches, you keep them healthy."

• Concerns and Speculations:

  • Urban Meyer [47:00]: Expresses skepticism about Ohio State's Will Howard securing a Heisman due to statistical limitations despite his talent.
  • Mark Ingram [43:12]: Supports candidates who not only perform well individually but also elevate their team's performance.

Week 1 Predictions

The hosts provide detailed analyses and predictions for several key Week 1 games, incorporating team performance, player dynamics, and strategic insights.

1. Georgia vs. Clemson

   • Mark Ingram [54:52]: Prefers Georgia, citing Carson Beck's exceptional performance and Kirby Smart’s defensive prowess.
   • Urban Meyer [47:05]: Concerned about Georgia’s ability to maintain momentum against varying competition levels.

2. Penn State vs. West Virginia

   • Urban Meyer [58:38]: Predicts West Virginia to cover the spread, highlighting Garrett Green’s versatility and Penn State’s strong rushing defense.
   • Mark Ingram [58:51]: Echoes confidence in West Virginia’s chances.

3. Miami vs. Florida

   • Urban Meyer [60:38]: Anticipates a close game, leaning towards Florida to cover the spread despite Miami’s strong quarterback depth.
   • Mark Ingram [61:55]: Emphasizes the high stakes, noting the potential fallout on fan bases based on the game's outcome.

4. Notre Dame vs. Texas A&M

   • Mark Ingram [62:43]: Favors Texas A&M due to Notre Dame’s injury woes and a weak offensive line.
   • Urban Meyer [60:16]: Questions Notre Dame’s preparation and depth.

5. LSU vs. USC

   • Mark Ingram [63:08]: Picks LSU to cover based on team strength and coaching.
   • Urban Meyer [64:57]: Highlights potential disruptions from USC’s new offensive coordinator and the impact of player performance shifts.

6. Florida State vs. Boston College

   • Mark Ingram [70:42]: Chooses Boston College to cover the spread, considering Florida State’s inconsistent recent performance.
   • Urban Meyer [71:49]: Concerns over Florida State’s quarterback depth and overall team dynamics under Mike Norvell.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Urban Meyer [05:15]: “Four to six, A to B. Four to six is the length of a play, four to six seconds and A to B. There's always a starting point A and a finish point B.”
• Dan Lanning [19:34]: “I'm more interested in changing those lineups up until you get... how many players you have above the line to play winning football.”
• Mark Ingram [43:32]: “These teams that are... looking for those quarterbacks and somebody from those positions to be able to rise to the occasion and be in the contestant for the Heisman.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Triple Option offers a rich tapestry of football analysis, combining strategic insights from a seasoned coach like Dan Lanning with the seasoned perspectives of Urban Meyer and Mark Ingram. From dissecting unexpected game outcomes to anticipating Heisman contenders and forecasting Week 1 results, the hosts provide fans with a thorough and engaging overview of the upcoming season's key narratives.

For those who haven’t tuned in, this episode ensures you’re well-equipped with the latest discussions and expert opinions shaping college football this season.