Home / Sports / Oregon Ducks' QB Battle Heats Up: Moore Stays, Raiola Arrives
Oregon Ducks' QB Battle Heats Up: Moore Stays, Raiola Arrives
13 Mar
Summary
- Dante Moore returns, boosting CFP hopes for the Ducks' third straight season.
- Nebraska transfer Dylan Raiola joins the quarterback room as he recovers.
- Oregon begins spring practice with 14 returning Peach Bowl starters.
Oregon Ducks coach Dan Lanning began the 2026 spring season practices on March 12, 2026, with a clear focus on returning to the College Football Playoff. The team's aspirations received a major boost when starting quarterback Dante Moore decided to return for his redshirt junior year.
Moore, who led the Ducks to a 13-2 record in 2025, threw for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns. His decision was crucial, especially after the team added Nebraska transfer Dylan Raiola, a former top recruit. Raiola is currently working back from a fibula injury sustained on November 1, 2025.
Lanning noted that Moore is stepping up as a leader and "coach on the field." He also expressed excitement about Raiola's potential, describing him as a "cerebral player" learning the new system. Both quarterbacks are expected to compete as the Ducks prepare for their spring game on April 25, 2026.
The Ducks are looking to rebound after a significant 56-22 loss to Indiana in the CFP semifinals on January 9, 2026. The team returns 14 players who started in that game, including six all-conference selections. Lanning emphasized the need to learn from past experiences and adapt for the upcoming season.
