Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore is set to miss his third game with a concussion, which is a bit concerning for the team. They were hopeful to have him back and ready to play by now. The question then remained about who would start this Saturday against the Illinois Fighting Illini.
In Moore's first game out, the start went to Dylan Raiola, the Nebraska transfer. However, he led the team to a disappointing 17-15 loss to UCLA, which played a part in Oregon dropping out of the top-25 rankings. He completed just 6-of-19 passes for 43 yards and two interceptions in the loss.
Last weekend, coach Dan Lanning named Brock Thomas as the starter over Raiola against Nebraska. However, Thomas was benched in the fourth quarter while Raiola came in and led the Ducks to a comeback 17-14 win over the Huskers. Raiola threw the game-winning touchdown in the final quarter.
This win was impressive enough for Lanning to decide to rename Raiola as the starting quarterback versus Illinois, sources told On3 on Thursday. Raiola will attempt to keep the Ducks in the running for the 12-team College Football Playoff. Another loss would be detrimental to Oregon's hopes of playing in the postseason.
This might be the last game the Ducks will rely on a backup quarterback during as Moore continues to progress in his recovery. On3 reported that his practice reps have increased in the past couple weeks. Oregon's next game after the Illinois matchup will be against a ranked Northwestern Wildcats squad on Saturday, Oct. 31.
There's a chance Moore could be back for that game. But, if he's not, then Raiola will be fighting for the opportunity to start in his third contest this season.
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