Dante Moore injury update: Oregon QB takes major step before UCLA showdown

Dante Moore injury update: Oregon QB takes major step before UCLA showdown originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The sight Oregon wanted to see arrived earlier this week. Dante Moore was back on the practice field. Moore participated in practice wearing a helmet and shoulder pads less than two weeks after suffering a concussion on a frightening hit during Oregon's victory over USC.

Ducks coach Dan Lanning said Moore also was throwing the football during the session.

It represents an encouraging step for Moore. It does not guarantee he will play Saturday. Oregon continues to take a cautious approach with its starting quarterback ahead of a ranked matchup against UCLA.

Will Dante Moore play against UCLA?

That remains uncertain.

Lanning did not provide details about how much Moore participated Monday or where he currently stands in the concussion protocol. The Big Ten's availability report Wednesday evening should provide the next significant update.

"We're going to continue to make sure we do what's best for Dante as we move forward," Lanning told reporters.

Oregon had a bye last weekend, giving Moore nearly two weeks between the USC game and Saturday's matchup.

The Ducks have made it clear, however, that the calendar won't dictate his return. Moore must complete the required concussion protocol and receive medical clearance before playing.

The joy is clear in Eugene. Dante Moore is back at practice, and his teammates are just happy to see his smiling face. https://t.co/nzcimzIQZC

— Zachary Neel (@zacharycneel) October 6, 2026

Dylan Raiola gives Oregon an impressive Plan B

Oregon has another reason not to rush Moore. Dylan Raiola looked awfully comfortable when suddenly thrown into one of the biggest games of the season. Raiola replaced Moore against USC and completed 19 of 25 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns.

MORE: Sporting News Heisman watch heading into Week 6

The former Nebraska quarterback gives Oregon something most teams don't have behind an injured starter: an experienced quarterback capable of winning an important game.

Lanning said Raiola needs to continue preparing as though he will start.

UCLA is doing the same. Bruins coach Bob Chesney said his team is preparing for both quarterbacks and acknowledged there isn't a significant drop-off between them.

That makes Oregon's situation fascinating. The Ducks obviously would prefer to have their starter available.

But they don't have to gamble with Moore's health simply because a ranked opponent is coming to Autzen Stadium.

Oregon wants Moore back. Seeing him practicing again Monday was already an important victory.

Whether he's ready for the next step should be determined by his recovery, not Saturday's kickoff.

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