The buzz around college football this season has been electric, and one of the key talking points has been the performance of Oklahoma quarterback Dillon Gabriel. Following a matchup between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Oregon Ducks, Oregon’s head coach Dan Lanning made headlines with his comments about Gabriel’s impressive display on the field. In a post-game press conference, Lanning offered insights into Gabriel’s performance that provided a glimpse into the respect he has for the opposing quarterback’s skill set and how it impacted the game.
The game between Oregon and Oklahoma was one of the marquee matchups of the season, pitting two programs with rich histories against each other. With both teams vying for supremacy in their respective conferences and aiming for a potential College Football Playoff spot, the stakes could not have been higher. On a stage like this, all eyes were on the quarterbacks—especially Oklahoma’s Dillon Gabriel, who has been a standout player throughout the season.
Gabriel came into the game with a reputation as one of the most prolific passers in college football, and he did not disappoint. His performance against a stout Oregon defense showcased his ability to extend plays, deliver precise throws, and maintain composure under pressure. Despite Oregon’s best efforts to contain him, Gabriel made critical plays that kept Oklahoma in the game, making it a tough battle for both sides.
After the game, which saw Oklahoma and Gabriel putting up a strong fight, Oregon head coach Dan Lanning made sure to recognize the effort and skill displayed by the Sooners’ quarterback. During his post-game comments, Lanning was clear about his admiration for Gabriel’s performance, pointing out how the quarterback’s poise and playmaking ability made life difficult for the Ducks’ defense.
“Dillon Gabriel is the real deal,” Lanning said. “He’s a player who keeps you on your toes every single down. It’s not just his arm; it’s the way he reads defenses, the way he finds open lanes to run, and how he manages the game. We knew coming in that he was going to be a challenge, and he lived up to that reputation.”
Lanning’s remarks were significant not just for their praise but for what they revealed about Oregon’s game plan. The Ducks came