Oregon QB Dante Moore Hospitalized After Targeting Hit in USC Win

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore was taken to hospital after a targeting hit to the head during the Ducks’ 41-27 win over No. 12 USC on Saturday, but coach Dan Lanning said the star passer had movement in all his extremities.

Moore was hurt in the second quarter at the LA Memorial Coliseum when he slid after a scramble and USC defensive back Desman Stephens II collided with his helmet. The hit was flagged and confirmed for targeting. Moore lay on the field for close to 10 minutes before being strapped to a backboard, loaded into an ambulance and transported to LA General Medical Center, according to 247sports. He was able to move his hands and feet while on the cart.

Lanning told reporters after the game: “He’s in recovery, so I don’t want to speak too soon, but he’s moving; he has the ability to move.” He said he was unsure whether Moore would travel back to Eugene with the team and expects to share more when he speaks to the media on Monday, DucksWire reported.

Moore, a projected top-five pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, had completed 8 of 10 passes for 77 yards before the injury. Backup Dylan Raiola, the Nebraska transfer, threw for 289 yards and two touchdowns on 19-of-25 passing in relief as Oregon stayed in control after the emotional win.