Oregon HC Dan Lanning Praises Player's Physical Transformation

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One of the most interesting statements Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning made at the Big Ten Media Days in Chicago this week was that this team has the potential to be better than the 2024 and 2025 teams, not because of talent, but because they have experience on their side.

A fierce front seven on defense that includes Matayo Uiagalelei, Bear Alexander, A’Mauri Washington, and Teitum Tuioti will be key to Oregon not only making the College Football Playoff, but winning the national championship.

When speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Lanning praised Tuioti for how he's transformed during his time with the program, noting the pass-rusher has gained 50 pounds during his four years at Oregon.

Tuioti showed his commitment to getting better right away.

"And then thirdly, I got the opportunity to bring Teitum Tuioti," Lanning said. "This is a guy that's been along our journey the entire time, you know, son of our defensive line coach Tony Tuioti. It's a guy that came in at 215 pounds, and now he's 265 pounds. Has been one of the best players in our league.

"Certainly a dynamic piece of our front. I remember looking out the window, you know, when when Teitum first joined us, and he's out there on the sled, striking the sled, and I think that speaks volumes about his work ethic, the time that he's put in, and what he's created. So, Coach Love has done an unbelievable job with our players this off-season."

Tuioti has progressed in each season at Oregon. In 2023, he recorded two sacks. That number increased to 5.5 in 2024. Last season, he recorded 68 tackles, five passes defensed, two forced fumbles and 9.5 sacks, leading Oregon in sacks.

Expect Tuioti to have an even better season in Year 4 at Oregon, which could be double-digit sacks as he impresses NFL scouts by putting up good tape.

Uiagalelei finished with six sacks last season, the second most on the Ducks. As teams focus on Tuioti, Uiagalelei could have a better chance to win his matchups with the offensive line and get to the quarterback.

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