Canzano: Oregon coach Dan Lanning not interested in Auburn opening

Don't believe the rumors...

Dan Lanning is 8-1 at Oregon in his first season. (Photo: Serena Morones)

Believe what you’d like, but I’m here to tell you that Oregon Ducks coach Dan Lanning isn’t interested in leaving Eugene.

Auburn fired football coach Bryan Harsin last week. The Tigers have hired a search firm. A writer at “Fan Nation” — part of the Sports Illustrated network — reported on Sunday that there was “mutual interest” between Auburn and Oregon coach Dan Lanning.

I promised that I would give you sourced, in-depth reporting here. Stuff you can’t get anywhere else. I can tell you whoever reported “mutual” interest didn’t bother to check with Lanning or his agent.

I did.

Lanning has zero interest.

Oregon’s coach may get restless at some point. He may hit a ceiling. Maybe he decides to leave Eugene one day, but that day doesn’t feel like it’s coming anytime soon. Remember, Lanning grew up in rural Missouri. His alma mater, William Jewell College, plays Division II football. This isn’t like the University of Miami calling on Mario Cristobal.

It’s not Chip Kelly to the NFL.

It’s not Willie Taggart, who barely moved his family to Eugene.

I wrote a column recently about Lanning. He’s put down roots. It feels like he’s just getting started. But don’t take my word. Take his. He’ll be asked on Monday.

Make sure you listen carefully.

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