Oregon quarterback Dante Moore hospitalized after hit in USC game

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore was carted off the field and transported by ambulance after a late hit by USC linebacker Desman Stephens II in the second quarter of the Ducks' 41-27 win at Los Angeles. The play occurred on a first-down attempt in Trojans territory when Moore scrambled and tried to slide, but was struck hard, causing his head to hit the ground. Stephens was penalized for targeting and ejected, and both teams received unsportsmanlike conduct penalties.

Moore was examined on the field for an extended period before being placed on a stretcher, moved to a cart, and taken to Los Angeles General County Hospital, where he has movement in all extremities and is undergoing a thorough evaluation.

"We're getting him checked out," head coach Dan Lanning said in a halftime interview. "Obviously we've got to be very thorough with that."

Backup quarterback Dylan Raiola, a transfer from Nebraska, entered the game and threw a three-yard touchdown pass on his first play. Moore, who had been a preseason Heisman Trophy contender after throwing for 849 yards and nine touchdowns this season, had previously announced his intention to remain at Oregon despite being projected as a top pick in the 2026 NFL draft.