Dan Lanning explains how position versatility will be a benefit for Oregon's defense

Dan Lanning is a bit of a culture shock for Oregon football. The defensive-minded former Georgia coordinator brings a different outlook than the offensive-driven coaches at the Ducks succeeded with in recent memory.

He plans to bring an open mindset to Eugene. Where he’s open to playing in a variety of ways. And using his best players to the best of their abilities rather than trying to fit them into a system. He wants to recruit versatile, talented athletes.

At Pac-12 Media Days, he expanded on the matter. Singing the praises of playing guys at more than one spot on the field. He wants the best group of players on the field, regardless of sticking rigidly to traditional positions. We know that strategy worked at Georgia.

“Yeah, I believe in position versatility,” Lanning said. “I believe in figuring out ways to have your best 11 players on the field. Another mantra of mine is always if you’re good enough, you’re old enough. If we have players that are good enough, we want to find a role for them on our team. Want to be able to have them contribute to our success.”

Plus, playing guys at multiple positions earlier in their career helps them learn and adapt to being put anywhere on the field. Which, over time, gives Lanning incredible flexibility across the roster.

“When you have guys that can learn multiple positions, have guys that can move around and are smart and intelligent, at the end of the day it only benefits your team whenever an injury occurs or a certain pressure package. Personnel grouping can be changed to adapt to our strengths.”

That extra depth normally finds a way to be helpful. As throughout any season, every team in the country is going to face injuries and inconsistencies, so it’s nice to have plenty of depth and lineup versatility waiting in the wings — at least according to Dan Lanning.