Oregon Quarterback Dante Moore Speaks Out After Hospitalization Following Tackle

Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore has broken his silence from the hospital following a severe tackle during Saturday's game against USC. The signal-caller was taken to the hospital after being left motionless on the field from a hit by USC linebacker Desman Stephens II during the second quarter of Oregon's 41-27 victory.

Moore shared a message on Instagram Monday, thanking his team, the community, and fans for their prayers and support. "These past 2 days have been very difficult, but through all of your prayers I have made progress," he wrote. "I can only worry about today, and making sure I give today it’s full attention. I’ll be back soon. Go Ducks!"

The incident occurred as Moore attempted to slide after an 11-yard scramble near the USC 12-yard line. Stephens delivered a direct shoulder strike to Moore's head, causing his head to snap backward and impact the turf. Medical staff immediately attended to Moore, placing him in a neck brace and transporting him to Los Angeles General Medical Center.

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning confirmed postgame that Moore was recovering and showing positive neurological responsiveness. "He's in recovery, so I don't want to speak too soon, but he is moving," Lanning stated. "He has the ability to move. We'll continue to assess him."

Lanning described Stephens' tackle as a "disgusting play." USC announced Sunday that Stephens received a one-game suspension for the hit, ruling him out of their upcoming game against Washington. USC head coach Lincoln Riley and Stephens also issued statements regarding the incident, with Stephens apologizing for his actions.

Footage of Stephens smiling and celebrating with teammates on the bench shortly after the collision drew widespread criticism online. Many fans and commentators deemed the one-game suspension insufficient, with some calling for harsher penalties from the Big Ten conference.