"I'm a servant to you": When Dan Lanning opened his arms for Oregon's former players he didn't have the opportunity to coach 

Dan Lanning has established himself as one of the best coaches across the country over the past few years. The Oregon coach is also known for developing players and sharing a strong bond with them.

When Lanning was appointed as Oregon coach, he had a special message for the former Ducks players whom he never had the opportunity to work alongside. In his introductory press conference on Dec. 13, 2021, Lanning said:

"This place is special and we were welcomed with open arms. To our former players, I am a servant to you. (Timestamp: 6:17)

"Whether I have coached you or not, we want you to know this is a program that you can be proud of, and part of. This is a place where your involvement is very important to us."

Lanning has done a fine job at Oregon over the past few years. He led the team to a 10-3 record in his first year and a 12-2 record in his second season.

This season, Lanning's Ducks have been one of the most-talked-about teams in the country.

Dan Lanning's Oregon will aim to win national championship this season

NCAA Football: Oregon HC Dan Lanning - Source: Imagn

Dan Lanning's top-ranked Oregon (11-0, 8-0 Big Ten) is one of the few undefeated teams in the country this season. The Ducks are in pole position to reach the College Football Playoff and will also have one eye on going all the way and winning the national title.

Lanning's Ducks have an off in Week 13 and will get some much-needed rest before playing their final regular-season game against Washington on Nov. 30.

While Lanning has done a phenomenal job with Oregon thus far, the Ducks' starting quarterback Dillion Gabriel has been excellent this season. The signal-caller has racked up 3,066 yards, 22 touchdowns and six interceptions.

If Gabriel is able to continue his stellar run into the playoffs, the Ducks will have a great chance of winning the national championship.