Oregon Defeats USC Despite Dante Moore Exiting With Injury

The Oregon Ducks came away with a strong 41-27 win over the USC Trojans on Saturday, improving their record to 3-1 on the season.

Oregon entered the season as one of the best teams in the country, but a shocking loss to the Oklahoma State Cowboys caused them to drop in the AP Poll rankings. Heading into this matchup against the 12th-ranked Trojans, it was a must-win to remain in contention for a College Football Playoff spot.

While the Ducks came away with a win, they lost star quarterback Dante Moore in the process. Moore was carted off the field and taken to a local hospital after he was hit in the head while sliding during a scramble. Desman Stephens II delivered the hit, and he was ejected for targeting.

Moore has movement in all of his extremities and is continuing to be evaluated in the hospital. Prior to his injury, Moore had completed eight of 10 passes for 77 yards while rushing for 10 yards.

Dylan Raiola replaced the injured Moore and led Oregon's offense to victory. Raiola completed 19 of 25 passes for 289 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions.

Raiola and the Ducks got multiple weapons involved as Jamari Johnson had seven receptions for 119 yards in return, while Dierre Hill Jr. had four receptions for 105 yards, Evan Stewart had seven receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown, Dakorien Moore had three catches for 42 yards and the game-clinching touchdown, and Messiah Hampton added five receptions for 40 yards.

The run game was also strong for Oregon as Jordon Davison had 16 carries for 66 yards and a touchdown, with Dierre Hill Jr. adding 63 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries.

The Ducks' defense was also strong, with Koi Perich delivering the game-sealing interception. The pass rush also played well, with Matayo Uiagalelei and Bear Alexander posting a sack.

Oregon kept Jayden Maiava in check as he completed 23 of 42 passes for 326 yards and two touchdowns, and he also recorded an interception while rushing for a touchdown. Maiava put up solid numbers, but was inefficient with the Ducks' pass rush getting home and the secondary making some big plays.

Dan Lanning and Oregon will likely rise in the AP Poll rankings after the win over USC and will look to improve to 4-1 in a matchup against the UCLA Bruins. For now, the Ducks will hope to receive positive updates about Moore's injury.