EUGENE — The volume of those willing to speculate about Dante Moore’s plans for next season is ratcheting up, but Oregon’s quarterback says he has not decided anything yet.
Moore is widely projected to be either the No. 1 or 2 quarterback in the NFL draft — if he declares.
“Everybody keeps asking me questions, but there’s not a decision yet,” Moore said. “I don’t know. I’m glad to be here and play JMU this upcoming week.”
Moore enters the College Football Playoff completing 72.5% of his passes for 2,733 yards with 24 touchdowns and six interceptions with 191 rushing yards and one score.
Underclassmen have until Jan. 14 to declare for the draft, with players in the national championship game having until Jan. 23. Until Moore makes his decision, speculation will persist, particularly as the NFL regular season draws to a close and the top of the draft order is finalized.
“So many thoughts and so many things going on through my head,” Moore said. “I feel like having coach (Dan) Lanning and having a support team that helps me get through my every day life and making sure that I stayed focused on the main thing. Of course, my main thing right now is to be where my feet (are) at. It’s being here with my teammates.”
Moore’s growth following a redshirt year while backing up Dillon Gabriel in 2024, has been evident this season. His accuracy, efficiency and decision-making have all improved dramatically from his true freshman season at UCLA in 2023.
He’s led No. 5 Oregon on multiple two-minute scoring drives at the end of halves and made cross-field throws with ease. Moore’s 187.4 efficiency rating on third down is second nationally, barely behind Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, and his 71.2% completions on third downs ranks seventh.
Offensive coordinator Will Stein said Moore’s command of the offense has grown through the season.
“(He’s) playing with a swagger out there,” Stein said. “I think that’s shown throughout the rest of our skill guys and our offensive line. When Dante’s on, when he’s got that pep in his step we’re really hard to stop.”
No. 12 James Madison (12-1) at No. 5 Oregon (11-1)
- When: Saturday, Dec. 20
- Time: 4:30 p.m. PT
- Where: Autzen Stadium
- TV: TNT/HBO Max
