Oregon quarterback Dante Moore appeared to suffer a significant head injury in the first half against USC on Saturday night.
While trying make a play in the red zone, Moore took off on a scramble before sliding down inside the 10 yard line. However, he was met by USC defender Desman Stephans and took a helmet-to-helmet hit.
Moore was given medical attention for several minutes before being stretchered off. Stephans was ejected for targeting.
Here’s a clip of the hit:
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If Moore misses significant time, it would have a big impact on Oregon’s offense and the Heisman Trophy race. Moore entered the year on a shortlist of Heisman Trophy contenders and was considered to be one of the nation’s best returning quarterbacks.
Oregon does have a highly-qualified backup in Dylan Raiola, who served as Nebraska’s starting quarterback in 2024 and 2025 before transferring to Dan Lanning’s program this past offseason.
Oregon is trying to avoid its second loss of the season. The Ducks lost to Oklahoma State in stunning fashion back in Week 2 and now must try to win on the road at USC — likely without their starting QB for the remainder of the game.
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Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
