Dante Moore Talks Ducks’ Preparation, Texas Tech Matchup, and Offensive Rhythm Ahead of CFP Clash
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore is riding a wave of momentum heading into Thursday’s College Football Playoff showdown against Texas Tech in the Orange Bowl. After lighting up the scoreboard with five touchdowns in the Ducks’ opening-round win over James Madison, Moore met with reporters on Sunday to break down Oregon’s preparation, the challenge ahead, and why this team feels more ready than ever.
Let’s dive into what Moore had to say - and what it tells us about where Oregon stands heading into one of the biggest games of the season.
Sharper, More Rhythmic Prep This Time Around
One of the first things Moore touched on was how much more locked in this year’s Ducks feel compared to last postseason. The difference? Rhythm.
“Playing JMU early felt way better than last year, when we had that long break,” Moore said. “It kind of feels like we’re still in rhythm.”
That rhythm matters - especially in a sport where timing and chemistry can fade with too much downtime. Head coach Dan Lanning has clearly made it a point to keep the Ducks sharp between rounds, and Moore credited him for building a prep schedule that’s kept the team focused and physically ready, even with the unusual midweek game.
Facing a Disruptive Texas Tech Defense? Moore’s Been Training for It All Year
Texas Tech brings a front seven that’s aggressive, physical, and known for disrupting quarterbacks. But Moore isn’t blinking. In fact, he sees it as a challenge he’s already been preparing for - every day at practice.
“We’ve got the best D-linemen, best rushers, best linebackers in the country,” Moore said confidently. “I feel like at practice every day, it’s the best look I’m going to get.”
That’s the kind of iron-sharpens-iron mentality you want from your quarterback. Moore’s mobility and poise in the pocket have taken a noticeable leap this season, and he credits that to the daily battles against Oregon’s own defense. The Ducks’ scout team has clearly been simulating pressure-heavy looks, and Moore’s comfort level under fire could be a major asset against a Texas Tech defense that thrives on chaos.
Navigating a “Weird Week” with Poise
With the game falling on a Thursday, the Ducks’ entire weekly rhythm has shifted. Sunday was essentially treated as a Wednesday - and that’s not just a mental adjustment; it’s a physical one too.
“When I woke up this morning, I didn’t even know it was Sunday,” Moore said with a laugh. “We thought it was Wednesday.”
It’s a small detail, but it speaks to the level of discipline and buy-in from the team. Lanning’s been here before, and Moore praised the staff for building flexibility into their season-long prep. Whether it’s a Friday night kickoff or a midweek bowl game, Oregon’s been trained to adapt - and that adaptability is going to be tested in Miami.
9 A.M. Kickoff? No Problem
Thursday’s game kicks off at 9 a.m. Pacific Time - not exactly the ideal start for a West Coast team used to afternoon or evening games. But again, Moore and the Ducks aren’t sweating it.
“We practice at 9 a.m., so it’s kind of just like it is at practice,” Moore said. “Of course, it’s going to be a little different, but that’s the time we get ready to push the field.”
The Ducks have also ramped up heat training, simulating Miami’s humidity inside their indoor facility. It’s not going to be a perfect match for South Florida conditions, but the team has leaned into the discomfort - and that’s often the difference between surviving and thriving in bowl season.
Spreading the Wealth on Offense - By Design
One of the most impressive elements of Moore’s game this season has been his ability to keep defenses guessing. He’s not locking in on one receiver - he’s distributing the ball across the board, and that’s very much intentional.
“I’ve always had great receivers, great tight ends - just great players on my team,” Moore said. “I know how it is when one guy gets all the catches… Receivers are emotional, man.”
That insight - delivered with a grin - speaks volumes about Moore’s leadership. He understands the locker room dynamics and the importance of keeping everyone involved. But more importantly, he knows that balance makes life harder for opposing defensive coordinators.
“If you double one guy, I’ve got other options,” he said. “You’ve got to guard everybody.”
That’s not just smart football - it’s elite-level quarterbacking. Moore is playing chess out there, and his ability to manipulate coverages and keep everyone involved has been a huge part of Oregon’s offensive success.
Trust in the Big Guys Up Front
No quarterback gets to shine without protection, and Moore made sure to give his offensive line their flowers. He singled out O-line coach A’lique Terry for the group’s growth - not just physically, but mentally.
“Coach Terry is making sure that when it comes to the meeting rooms, protection-wise, technique-wise… they’re learning,” Moore said. “Mentally, they’ve been getting so much better day by day.”
He also shouted out veterans like Poncho, Isaiah, and E-Man for their leadership and communication up front. And when you’re practicing against elite pass rushers like Matayo and Teitum every week, the game tends to slow down on Saturdays - or in this case, Thursdays.
“As a quarterback, I have 100 percent comfort and confidence in the pocket with them,” Moore said. “I’m blessed to have them as my O-line.”
Final Thoughts: Ducks Locked In for the Moment
If there’s a theme to Moore’s comments, it’s this: Oregon is dialed in. From the altered practice schedule to the early kickoff to the heat and humidity, the Ducks aren’t just preparing - they’re embracing the challenge.
Moore is playing the best football of his young career, and he’s doing it with a calm, confident demeanor that’s contagious. The Ducks are heading to Miami with momentum, cohesion, and a quarterback who looks ready for the spotlight.
Texas Tech will bring the heat. But Oregon - and Dante Moore - sound more than ready to answer.