Oregon Ducks Head Coach Dan Lanning Requests NACC to Limit Ohio State Fans at Upcoming Game
EUGENE, OR — Oregon Ducks football head coach Dan Lanning has officially requested the North American Collegiate Conference (NACC) to reduce the number of Ohio State fans attending the highly anticipated match between the two powerhouse teams next month.
In a letter submitted to the NACC on Monday, Lanning voiced concerns over the potential impact of a heavily Ohio State-dominated crowd, particularly when it comes to creating an atmosphere that could affect his team’s performance. The Ducks head coach emphasized that while Oregon welcomes the spirited competition of college football, a fair and neutral environment for both teams is essential for the integrity of the game.
“While we understand the enthusiasm of Ohio State’s fan base, we believe that limiting their numbers in the stands will ensure a more balanced and level playing field,” Lanning stated in his request. “Our players deserve to compete in an environment where the support is distributed equally, allowing them to focus on the game rather than feeling overwhelmed by a crowd that could tilt the momentum.”
The NACC, which oversees scheduling and fan policies for major collegiate matchups, is reviewing the request but has yet to make an official statement. The Ohio State Buckeyes are known for their massive and passionate fan base, often filling stadiums to capacity at both home and away games. The upcoming game between Oregon and Ohio State is expected to draw significant attention, with both teams ranked among the top contenders in the nation.
While Lanning’s request has sparked debate among fans and analysts, it remains to be seen how the NACC will respond. Some fans argue that limiting fan attendance could undermine the spirit of college football, which thrives on passionate support for teams, while others support Lanning’s call for fairness and neutrality in high-stakes games.
The Oregon Ducks and Ohio State Buckeyes are set to face off on January 13, 2024, in what promises to be an unforgettable showdown.
