Oregon HC Dan Lanning Provides Curious Update on Dante Moore for UCLA Game
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The Oregon Ducks were fortunate to have a bye last week after quarterback Dante Moore suffered a concussion during the Ducks' 41-27 win over the USC Trojans in Los Angeles in Week 4.
Oregon turned to Nebraska transfer Dylan Raiola to finish the contest. He went 19 of 25 for 289 yards and two touchdowns. Following the game, Lanning told reporters that he had no timetable for Moore's return as the quarterback needed to clear the concussion protocol.
On Monday night, Lanning provided a few more details on Moore as Oregon prepares to host an undefeated No. 21 UCLA Bruins program on Saturday. Per ESPN, Lanning told reporters Moore wore a helmet and shoulder pads at practice and was throwing the football on Monday.
However, Lanning did not provide specific details about what Moore did with practice. It's unclear if Moore has completly passed the concussion protocol and will be eligible to play UCLA on Saturday.
Moore chose the latter, and completed 69.7% of his passes for 926 yards and nine touchdowns this season.
Moore played well in the offense's struggles during Oregon's win over Boise State in Week 1. Moore and the offense struggled in the Ducks' loss to Oklahoma State in Week 2. He had a chance to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft but chose to return for one more year in Eugene.
If Moore is unable to go on Saturday, the Ducks are in capable hands with Raiola, who would have been the starting quarterback this season had Moore decided to enter the draft this year.
The Ducks made a statement in Los Angeles and appear to be back on track to looking like a contender for the College Football Playoff.
With that being said, the Ducks are set to face a surprise challenge in the Big Ten on Saturday.
UCLA has been an early force in college football under first-year head coach Bob Chesney. Chesney led James Madison to the CFP last year, but Oregon beat the Dukes in the first round in Eugene.
Chesney and UCLA will look to get a signature win over Lanning and the Ducks on the road this weekend. There is a lot on the line for both the Big Ten championship and CFP when the Ducks and Bruins play.
Oregon would be better prepared to play UCLA with Moore under center. But the quarterback's long-term health is a priority.
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