Nakobe Dean reveals how Georgia defense has responded with Dan Lanning's departure

Nakobe Dean has helped the Georgia defense become the most dominant in the nation. All season long, the unit terrorized opponents — shutting down their offenses and gaining victories for the Bulldogs.

However, the unit is going through change prior to the College Football Playoff. First, a drubbing at the hands of Alabama in the SEC Championship Game made Georgia reevaluate their game-plan. Then, defensive coordinator Dan Lanning was hired by the Oregon Ducks to takeover their football program.

With so much noise surrounding the unit, Dean was asked how the defense has responded.

“We got great leaders on the team, period,” stated Dean. “With Coach Lanning being out right now, it hasn’t been too much drop off. We feel like we’ve been able to lead the team and get us going .. So, it hasn’t been too much drop off.”

The answer from Nakobe Dean is music to the ears of the Georgia faithful. Instead of letting the next step in Lanning’s career ruin his final moments with the Bulldogs, the defense has the back of their defensive coordinator.

As Georgia readies for Michigan in the College Football Playoff, expect the Bulldogs to bring the best version of themselves to the game.

Lanning: ‘It would be totally unfair to our guys if I left with this opportunity.’

Dan Lanning has coached the Georgia defense to an all-time season in 2021. Featuring a multitude of NFL-caliber talent, the Bulldogs have continually shut teams down. Moreover, it’s played a big part in why the team was selected for the College Football Playoff.

Afterward, Lanning was hired as the new leader of the Oregon Ducks following the departure of Mario Cristobal to Miami. However, he’ll be allowed to finish out his season with Georgia. In an appearance on Sportscenter, the future Oregon coach elaborated on why he decided to finish out his tenure with the Bulldogs.

“Ultimately, it was never a decision,” stated Lanning. “I wouldn’t be in this situation if it wasn’t for our players. It would be totally unfair to our guys if I left with this opportunity. Didn’t finish what we started here. I’m grateful that Coach Smart would let me come back and help, but certainly have some unfinished business.”

As you can see, it was important for Lanning to honor his commitment to his athletes. As a coach, he’s setting an example and a precedent that he’ll continue to follow as the leader of the Ducks. Win or lose, Georgia is better off with Lanning finishing out his time with the program.

Dan Lanning is hoping to end his time at Georgia with a victory in the national championship. Still, he’s excited to prove he’s the right choice to lead Oregon into a new era.