Oregon quarterback Dante Moore hospitalized after head collision with USC defender
Quarterback Dante Moore was taken to an ambulance following a head injury sustained during a slide in Oregon's game against USC, and the opposing player was ejected for targeting.
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore, a top prospect for the 2027 NFL draft, suffered a head injury while sliding during the second quarter of the game against USC. After his knee struck the ground, USC defender Desmond Stephens drove his shoulder into Moore's head, causing the quarterback to hit the ground hard. Moore displayed a fencing response, a sign often associated with serious head trauma, and remained on the field for several minutes before medical staff placed him on a stretcher and transported him to an ambulance. He was observed moving his hands and feet during transport.
Stephens was penalized for targeting and ejected from the contest. The incident sparked a brief confrontation involving players from both teams, but officials and coaches restored order before the situation escalated further.
Moore, who chose to remain at Oregon for an additional season instead of entering the draft, now faces health concerns alongside considerations for his future football career.