Dan Fouts Commends Oregon Coach’s Response to Violent Football Incident

Oregon legend Dan Fouts emphasizes the violent nature of football through a recent incident. During the Ducks’ 41-20 victory over USC, linebacker Desman Stephens struck sliding quarterback Dante Moore with a risky late hit. The hit was alarming, leaving Moore carted off the field.

Dan Fouts lauded Oregon head coach Dan Lanning for his handling of the intense and emotional moment. Lanning gathered the team, calmed them, and prayed for Moore. He stressed the importance of focus and preparation. Fouts called Lanning’s approach ‘perfect’ in his interview with OutKick.

Fouts reflected on the incident, saying, ‘It’s a violent, violent game, and anyone who’s played has incurred injuries. That hit looked terrible.’

As for Stephens’ celebration post-hit, Fouts said, ‘Kids are kids.’ The linebacker appeared to regret his actions later.

USC suspended Stephens for the game against Washington following his behavior. He publicly apologized, acknowledging the seriousness of Moore’s injury. ‘I want to sincerely apologize for my actions during the game. Seeing a player like that is serious, and my reaction was inappropriate. I take full responsibility. This isn’t who I want to be,’ Stephens stated.

Dan Lanning was appalled by the hit, calling it ‘disgusting.’ Moore continues to recover in the NCAA’s concussion protocol without an official return date.

Dan Fouts has a deep connection with Oregon. He played three seasons there before being drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the 1973 NFL Draft. Fouts enjoyed a 15-season career and entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993.