Hall of Famer Dan Fouts praises Dan Lanning's response to Dante Moore injury

Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Fouts described Oregon head coach Dan Lanning's response to a serious on-field incident as perfect following the injury of quarterback Dante Moore. The praise came after USC linebacker Desman Stephens delivered a late hit to Moore in the second quarter of Oregon's 41-20 victory over USC last week.

During the play, Stephens hit the sliding Moore in the head. In the immediate aftermath, Stephens celebrated before Moore was carted off the field. Fouts, who played for the Oregon Ducks for three seasons, told OutKick that Lanning brought the team together and calmed them down. He stated that Lanning said a prayer for Moore and reminded the players about focus, preparation, and the importance of their work. Fouts noted that Lanning shifted the team back into a football mindset, a sequence of actions he considered absolutely perfect.

Fouts expressed concern for Moore's health when he first viewed the play, describing football as a violent game where injuries are common. He remarked that the specific incident looked terrible while speaking on behalf of Miller Night Football. Regarding Stephens' celebration after the hit, Fouts suggested that players are sometimes caught up in the moment. He said Stephens likely regrets his actions but made a mistake in the heat of the moment.

USC announced it had suspended Stephens for Saturday's game against Washington. The junior linebacker issued an apology for his inappropriate behavior. In a statement, Stephens said he takes full responsibility for his actions and that his reaction was completely inappropriate and inexcusable. He stated there is no justification for smiling or celebrating while another player receives medical attention. Stephens added that his reaction is not representative of USC or its program and expressed hope for Moore's full and speedy recovery.

Oregon coach Dan Lanning called Stephens' hit on his quarterback disgusting. Moore has no official return date and remains in the NCAA's concussion protocol. Fouts entered professional football via a third-round selection by the San Diego Chargers in 1973, spending his entire 15-year career with that franchise before entering the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993.