Expanding the Playbook
The Oregon Ducks opened their preseason camp on August 11 with a full‑pad practice on brand‑new outdoor turf, a surface that stretches the field far beyond the dimensions of the previous setup.
Head coach Dan Lanning said the extra acreage enables coaches to run larger, more complex drills that were impossible on the old limited field, and he relishes the fresh, grass‑filled environment.
The new turf sits adjacent to an indoor practice facility that is still under construction, creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor work.
Lanning noted that the expanded space gives players more opportunities to correct mistakes, push their limits, and grow during each session.
Assistant coaches are actively involved in meetings and drills, helping to shape the team’s approach as the upcoming Saturday scrimmage draws near.
The scrimmage will serve as a critical test of the Ducks’ tackling efficiency, a focus area for Lanning as he evaluates how the new environment translates to game‑like situations.