Dante Moore, Oregon’s star quarterback, was carted off the field in the second quarter against USC after taking a brutal, late hit to the head. It was a terrifying moment in a huge Big Ten tilt, and it could completely derail the Ducks’ season after all the hype.
The Hit That Rocked The Coliseum
The play itself was just awful to watch. Moore was scrambling, trying to pick up a first down, and he went into his slide. You know, the move every QB makes to protect themselves. But USC linebacker Desman Stephens II launched himself right into Moore’s head. It was a massive hit. Moore was seemingly knocked out cold, showing a fencing reaction immediately. He stayed down for an extended period, with the athletic training staff swarming. Oregon players rushed to defend their quarterback, and a fight broke out between the two teams, showing just how much emotion was flying. Stephens was ejected for targeting after a review, which was absolutely the right call. NBC reported that Moore had his eyes closed as he was stabilized and loaded onto a backboard, but thankfully he was moving his extremities and rotating his arms. He was taken to L.A. General County Hospital for evaluation. Man, you just hate to see that.
What This Means for Oregon’s Title Hopes
This injury comes at the worst possible time for Oregon, especially with so much on the line. Moore had returned for his senior season, actually giving up a shot at being a high first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to try and lead the Ducks to a national title. He came into this season as a potential QB1 for the 2027 NFL Draft! Despite an early loss to Oklahoma State, Oregon still had massive hopes for a College Football Playoff run and a possible national title. Now, they’re navigating a tough road environment against USC without their leader. This game was already considered a potential College Football Playoff eliminator, so losing their star QB makes that uphill battle even steeper. Transfer Dylan Raiola, who started the last two seasons at Nebraska before coming to Oregon this offseason, has taken over.
The Ducks have four conference games coming up where they are solidly favored, but the UCLA game next week is now looking like a much stiffer test than expected. And don’t forget that marquee game on November 7, on the road at Ohio State, which figures to be another potential eliminator for the Big Ten title game and the College Football Playoff. If Moore is out for an extended period, their playoff hopes are diminished, no doubt about it. The defense has to step up, too, after a slow start to the year. Get well soon, Dante!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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