Oregon coach condemns hit on quarterback Dante Moore after win over USC
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning criticized a hit that injured quarterback Dante Moore during the Ducks' 41-27 victory over USC and said the player is recovering.
Oregon defeated USC 41-27 on Saturday, but the game was marred by a collision that left quarterback Dante Moore with a head injury requiring hospital treatment. Moore, a highly regarded prospect for the 2027 NFL draft, was struck by USC linebacker Desman Stephens while sliding for a first down.
"Our guys respect the game. I don’t think you’d ever see that from our players. I don’t think you’d ever see that from our coaches," Lanning said, describing the incident as a "disgusting play" and expressing concern for Moore’s health.
Lanning praised his team’s composure after the injury, noting that players could have reacted aggressively but instead continued to compete on the field. He added that the backup quarterback, transfer Dylan Raiola, performed well, completing 19 of 25 passes for 289 yards, two touchdowns and no turnovers.
"Indications are that he’s in recovery, so I don’t want to speak too soon, but he’s moving," Lanning said about Moore’s condition, emphasizing that further updates would be provided when more information is available.