Oregon head football coach Dan Lanning engaged in a tense exchange with reporters on Monday regarding quarterback Dante Moore's absence from the postgame media availability following the Ducks' loss to Oklahoma State. Lanning stated that Moore was receiving IV treatment for dehydration immediately after the game, which prevented him from speaking with the press.
"I don’t think he chose not to," Lanning responded when asked why Moore did not address reporters. "Did you know he was getting an IV? He was getting two IVs after the game."
The coach further explained that Moore was experiencing cramping and dehydration, and that the team was focused on recovery and travel back to Eugene, Oregon, after the road game in Stillwater, Oklahoma. "Dante will be here tomorrow. You can talk to Dante, but he’s cramping up on the field. I think the first thing we’re going to do postgame is get treatment," Lanning said.
The discussion escalated when a reporter pointed out that this information about Moore's treatment had not been communicated to the media. Lanning questioned whether such a notification was necessary, leading to a back-and-forth about journalistic practices and the interpretation of events. When the reporter suggested that prior notification would prevent misinterpretation, Lanning retorted, "Well you misconstrued it. You could always ask me," before sarcastically concluding, "Good job."
The Ducks suffered a 39-31 upset loss to the unranked Oklahoma State Cowboys. In the game, Moore completed 14 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns but was sacked four times. This is not the first time Lanning has had a testy interaction with the press following a loss, recalling a similar exchange last season concerning the team's backup quarterback situation.