Dante Moore, the star quarterback for Oregon, is looking seriously doubtful for Saturday’s big clash against UCLA. Sources are telling CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz that despite Moore’s return to practice, he’s “unlikely to play,” which means we’re about to see something wild: Dylan Raiola is probably getting his first start for the Ducks.
Moore’s Rough Road Back
Seriously, this guy took a brutal hit. We’re talking September 26th against USC, where Trojans linebacker Desman Stephens Jr. absolutely leveled him to the head while Moore was sliding. The dude had to be stretchered off the field, and that’s never a sight you want to see for any player. Moore has been recovering from a concussion since then, and it sounds like the team is being super cautious, as they should be with a head injury.
Even though Moore was back at practice this week, rocking shoulder pads and a helmet, it’s not looking good for him to suit up. Coach Dan Lanning said Monday they’re taking things super slow, doing “what’s best for Dante moving forward.” You gotta respect that. The official word on availability drops Wednesday night with their first report of the week, but don’t hold your breath; “questionable at best” is the vibe Zenitz is picking up.
Raiola’s Time to Shine?
This is where it gets WILD, though. Because with Moore likely out, it means Dylan Raiola, the former five-star recruit, is probably getting his first start for Oregon. Remember Raiola? He transferred in from Nebraska this offseason, and his willingness to play the backup role for a season is already paying off, and big time.
When Moore went down against USC, Raiola stepped in and torched that secondary for 289 yards and two touchdowns. That’s not just “filling in”; that’s making a statement. Now he’s gotta do it again, but from the jump, and against a team that isn’t some walkover. UCLA isn’t just going to roll over; their first-year coach Bob Chesney has them “lighting up the scoreboard.” This isn’t just a friendly debut, this is a legit test for Raiola and for the Ducks’ season.
So, get ready, because Saturday against UCLA isn’t just another game. It’s Raiola’s chance to prove why he was a five-star guy and solidify his spot while Moore recovers. This could be the start of something special, or a huge challenge for a Ducks team facing a hot UCLA squad. Either way, you know I’m gonna be glued to the screen.
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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