Oregon quarterback Dante Moore returned to practice Monday in a helmet and shoulder pads, two weeks after sustaining a concussion against USC, coach Dan Lanning said. Lanning has not yet confirmed whether Moore will play in Saturday’s game against No. 21 UCLA.
Dante Moore Returns to Practice After Concussion
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore participated in practice Monday, marking his return to the field two weeks after sustaining a concussion against USC on Sept. 26. Head coach Dan Lanning noted that Moore wore a helmet and shoulder pads while throwing a football with his teammates during the closed session.
“It was great to see him back out there with his teammates and able to get a little work in today.”
During the Sept. 26 game against USC, Moore attempted to slide after a scramble before taking a late hit from linebacker Desman Stephens II. Athletic training staff evaluated Moore on the field before an ambulance transported him to Los Angeles General Medical Center. Lanning stated last week that subsequent MRI and CT scans returned clean, showing no additional injuries.
Health Precautions and Availability for UCLA Game
Lanning did not specify the exact scope of Moore’s participation during Monday’s practice or commit to his availability for Saturday’s matchup against No. 21 UCLA. The head coach emphasized that the program prioritizes the quarterback’s long-term health above immediate game outcomes.
“It’s one of those situations where we got to protect a player from himself,” Lanning said previously on The Pat McAfee Show. Lanning added that the mandatory Big Ten injury report, released Wednesday, and subsequent team preparations will clarify whether Moore can take the field.
Moore entered the 2024 season as a preseason Heisman Trophy contender after returning to Oregon for his senior year, following projections as a top pick in the 2026 NFL draft. Through four games this season, he has recorded 926 passing yards and nine touchdowns.
Dylan Raiola Prepares for Potential First Start
If Moore remains sidelined against the Bruins, former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola will make his first official start for the No. 13 Ducks. Raiola stepped in for Moore during the USC game, finishing the contest with 289 passing yards and two touchdowns to secure a victory.
“Dylan’s got to keep doing what he’s been doing,” Lanning said Monday. “Preparing like he’s going to be the guy that goes out there every single day. We need that from every single person on our team. We don’t need anything special from Dylan, other than doing what he’s been doing.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Dante Moore’s Status
When did Dante Moore sustain his concussion?
Moore sustained the concussion on Sept. 26 during Oregon’s game against USC after taking a late hit following a rushing scramble.
What medical evaluations did Dante Moore undergo after the hit?
Medical staff evaluated Moore on the field before transporting him via ambulance to Los Angeles General Medical Center. Dan Lanning confirmed that his subsequent MRI and CT scans came back clean.
Who filled in for Dante Moore against USC?
Former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola replaced Moore during the USC game, throwing for 289 yards and two touchdowns to help the Ducks win.
When will Oregon officially determine if Dante Moore plays against UCLA?
The mandatory Big Ten injury report, first released Wednesday, and the subsequent lead-up to Saturday’s game will provide official confirmation on Moore’s availability.
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