Chris Simms Apologizes for Dante Moore Injury Remarks

Chris Simms apologized after his halftime remarks about Oregon quarterback Dante Moore’s injury drew criticism during Oregon’s game against USC, saying he had not shown enough sympathy and had mishandled the moment. Moore was taken from the field by stretcher and ambulance after a targeting hit by USC linebacker Desman Stephens II. Reports later said Moore had been diagnosed with a concussion, but did not establish a firm timetable for his return. During halftime coverage, Simms described the injury as a “Debbie Downer moment” and discussed the mechanics of the collision, arguing that Moore’s late slide put Stephens in a difficult position. The remarks came shortly after Moore had been injured and was receiving medical attention. Stephens was ejected for targeting on the play. In an apology posted publicly on Sunday, September 27, Simms said he had moved too quickly into football analysis without first acknowledging the seriousness of Moore’s condition. He apologized to college football fans, Oregon supporters and Moore, whom he described as one of his favorite players. Simms also said he was wrong and sorry for how he handled the halftime discussion.