Dante Moore’s availability in serious doubt as Oregon takes a cautious approach with injured quarterback

The Oregon Ducks are expected to be shorthanded when they welcome UCLA to Eugene this weekend for a highly anticipated Big Ten tilt.

Despite Oregon coach Dan Lanning confirming that Moore participated in practice this week, the projected first-round NFL draft pick is unlikely to take the field in Week 6.

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"Dante was out there at practice for us today," the fifth-year Ducks head coach said at his weekly press conference, via CBS Sports. "Similar to what we said before, we're gonna do what's best for Dante moving forward. ... It was great to see him back out there with his teammates getting to work today."

OREGON DUCKS QB DANTE MOORE CARTED OFF THE FIELD AFTER A VICIOUS HIT TO THE HEAD AGAINST USC

Quarterback Dante Moore #5 of the Oregon Ducks warms up during a media timeout in the second half of the game against the Boise State Broncos at Autzen Stadium on September 5, 2026 in Eugene, Oregon. (Photo by Ali Gradischer/Getty Images) (Ali Gradischer/Getty Images)

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Oregon’s seemingly cautious approach to Moore’s return comes on the heels of a dangerous and controversial hit near his head that the signal-caller absorbed during a Week 4 game against USC.

USC defensive player Desman Stephens II delivered a forceful blow a Moore slid, forcing him to be taken off the field on a stretcher.

Oregon wide receiver Evan Stewart checks on quarterback Dante Moore as he is carted off the field after a hard tackle by linebacker Desman Stephens II during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

All players must successfully complete all five stages of the concussion protocol before being cleared to return to full-contact practice and, eventually, game competition.

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning stands over quarterback Dante Moore as he is attended to after a hard tackle by linebacker Desman Stephens II during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

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It remains unclear which stage of the protocol Moore has completed.