EUGENE, OR – The Oregon Ducks, ranked No. 7 nationally, are on the cusp of ushering in a new era under center as all signs point to Dante Moore taking the reins as the team’s starting quarterback for the highly anticipated 2025 season. Head Coach Dan Lanning is expected to make the official announcement next week, just days before the Ducks’ August 30th season opener against Montana State at Autzen Stadium. This decision marks a notable shift for Lanning, who has historically favored seasoned upperclassmen like Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel at the quarterback position. [3, 7, 18, 23]
Moore, a redshirt sophomore, arrived in Eugene after a freshman year at UCLA in 2023 where he started five games, gaining invaluable experience despite a raw stat line of 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions. [2, 3, 7, 13, 23] His year as Dillon Gabriel’s understudy in 2024 provided a crucial period for growth, allowing him to acclimate to Offensive Coordinator Will Stein’s system and refine his mechanics. [11] Sources indicate Moore has been diligently enhancing his physical attributes, notably improving his speed to an impressive 21.5 miles per hour, adding a dynamic dimension to his renowned arm talent. [3, 7, 11, 23]
Dante Moore’s Ascension to Starting QB
The path to becoming the Ducks’ signal-caller hasn’t been without competition. While Austin Novosad has been in the mix during preseason camp, Moore has consistently been the presumed frontrunner, earning praise for his development. [5, 9, 11, 14, 18] Big Ten Network analyst Yogi Roth, after observing fall camp, lauded Moore for his “consistency,” “unique ability to throw a catchable ball,” and “incredible accuracy,” suggesting he possesses the traits to become one of the nation’s top quarterbacks. [9, 11]
Coach Lanning himself has acknowledged Moore’s growth, stating that while the defense dominated an early August scrimmage where Moore’s production was limited, he later highlighted Moore’s improved confidence and decision-making in practice. [4, 5] The emphasis from Lanning on ball security and intelligent play aligns with the program’s championship aspirations, and Moore’s progression in these areas has clearly positioned him for the starting role. [16]
Navigating a New Receiving Landscape
One of the primary challenges for the presumptive Dante Moore starting QB will be establishing chemistry with a revamped receiving corps. The Ducks were dealt a significant blow with the season-ending knee injury (torn patellar tendon) to projected No. 1 receiver Evan Stewart. [6, 10, 29, 30] Stewart, who was Oregon’s third-leading receiver in 2024, is likely to take a medical redshirt, leaving a considerable void. [6, 23]
In Stewart’s absence, senior Gary Bryant Jr. and junior Justius Lowe are expected to assume more prominent roles, both having shown flashes of promise in previous seasons. [2, 6, 8, 17, 20, 23] However, the most anticipated addition to the receiving arsenal is five-star true freshman Dakorien Moore. Ranked as the No. 1 wide receiver in the 2025 recruiting class, Dakorien Moore has generated significant buzz, with many anticipating a formidable “Moore-to-Moore” connection on the field. [2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 12, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24]
Dakorien Moore’s elite speed, playmaking ability, and outstanding ball skills have already earned him a spot on the On3 True Freshman All-American Team, signaling his potential to make an immediate impact. [15, 22] Other receivers like Florida State transfer Malik Benson, praised for his speed and versatility, and developing talents such as Jeremiah McClellan and Kyler Kasper, will also be crucial in filling out the depth chart. [2, 6, 10, 11, 17, 20, 26]
The Outlook for Dante Moore as Starting Quarterback
The Ducks’ overall roster for 2025 sees significant turnover, with 18 players from last year’s Big Ten Championship squad departing for the NFL or other programs. [2, 21] Coach Lanning acknowledges the team’s relative inexperience but has expressed confidence in his new leaders and a talented freshman class. [21] Fortunately for the new starting quarterback, Oregon boasts an experienced and formidable offensive line, which is expected to be a major strength and the “engine” of the offense. [28] This veteran front, coupled with the addition of transfer running back Makhi Hughes, a former Doak Walker Award semifinalist, suggests a strong commitment to the run game that can take pressure off the passing attack. [11, 25, 28]
As the No. 7 Oregon Ducks prepare to kick off their season against Montana State, all eyes will be on Dante Moore starting QB to demonstrate the maturity and leadership needed to navigate the challenges ahead. With a blend of his individual talent, a potent, albeit young, receiving corps, and a powerful offensive line, Moore is poised to become the linchpin of Oregon’s ambitions for Big Ten contention and a potential College Football Playoff return. [11, 21]
