Dan Lanning Calls out ‘Disgusting’ USC Hit That Injured Oregon QB Dante Moore

In a highly anticipated clash between Oregon and USC, Ducks quarterback Dante Moore suffered a devastating injury early in the first quarter following a late hit from USC's Desman Stephens II. Moore attempted to slide after scrambling, but the impact caused his head to strike the ground. Immediately after the hit, Stephens celebrated, which led to confrontations on the field as Oregon players shoved Stephens.

The situation grew tense while Moore was lying on the ground. USC's Desman Stephens was ejected for targeting after the incident. Oregon's starting quarterback was carted off by an ambulance and later taken to a hospital for further evaluation, according to an ESPN report. USC's head coach Dan Lanning was unreserved in his criticism of the play, referring to it as "disgusting" and expressing his disappointment at the incident.

Lanning emphasized that he does not hold USC coach Lincoln Riley responsible for the play, stating that he only saw the late hit. Moore, a preseason Heisman contender and top NFL draft pick, completed 8 of 10 passes for 77 yards before leaving the game. Backup Dylan Raiola stepped in and delivered a strong performance, throwing for 289 yards and two touchdowns in a 41-27 victory for Oregon, which moved their season record to 3-1.

While Moore is reported to have movement in all extremities, he is currently undergoing thorough evaluation, and Lanning has cautioned against making premature assumptions about his recovery. Oregon will face UCLA in their next game on Saturday, October 10th.