Dan Lanning Throws Full Support Behind Tosh Lupoi for Cal Head Coach Vacancy

Well, the college football coaching carousel, it just never really stops, does it? And sometimes, a strong endorsement comes along that truly sets the stage for what might be next. That's exactly what happened when Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning recently spoke out, unequivocally throwing his full support behind his defensive coordinator, Tosh Lupoi, as a top candidate for the head coaching job at Cal.

It wasn't just a casual nod; Lanning was really emphatic about it. When asked directly if Lupoi would make a good head coach for the Golden Bears, his answer was an instant, firm "Absolutely." He didn't stop there, mind you. Lanning went on to describe Lupoi as a truly "special" individual. He highlighted Lupoi's remarkable ability to connect with players, recruit at an elite level, and frankly, develop a defense that performs at an incredibly high standard.

You see, Cal is currently deep into its search for a new leader, reportedly sifting through a rather extensive list of 14 potential candidates. But with Lanning's powerful words, Lupoi’s name certainly gains a significant amount of traction. It's not just a casual endorsement; it’s from a highly respected peer who sees his work day in and day out.

Now, it’s a bit of a bittersweet scenario, isn't it? On one hand, Lanning understands that losing a talent like Lupoi would be a significant blow to his Oregon staff. But on the other, there's a genuine sense of pride that comes with seeing your coaches advance their careers. Lanning himself articulated this, expressing that he takes immense pride in helping his assistants achieve their aspirations, even if it means they eventually move on to bigger opportunities. It really speaks volumes about his leadership philosophy, doesn't it?

Lupoi, for those who might not know, has a history with Cal, having served as their defensive coordinator previously. This existing connection, coupled with Lanning's ringing endorsement, only strengthens his case. His impact at Oregon has been undeniable; the Ducks' defense has been a formidable unit, characterized by aggressive play and strategic brilliance under his guidance. This performance history, combined with his recruiting prowess and ability to motivate, makes him a very compelling choice.

So, while the final decision rests with Cal, Lanning’s public backing has undoubtedly put Tosh Lupoi squarely in the spotlight. It's a critical moment for Cal football and, frankly, an exciting one for Lupoi, as he potentially stands on the cusp of leading his own program. We'll all be watching to see how this plays out, that's for sure.