Dante Moore's nightmare CFP semifinal could keep Miami's transfer QB dreams alive​

It was a disastrous Friday night for Dante Moore and that could be to the benefit of the 2026 Miami Hurricanes. 

Moore, a redshirt sophomore, has been the subject of rumors about whether he would stay to use another year of eligibility and get a second season with the Ducks or declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, where he would likely go in the first round. 

His final decision could have a domino effect that centers around top transfer portal quarterback Sam Leavitt, who is reportedly on his visit to Miami as you read this.

After last night's performance, it feels like a near certainty that Moore will opt to return to school.

He threw a pick-six on Oregon's first offensive snap of the game and things didn't get much better as the Ducks got trounced, 56-22, to Indiana in the Peach Bowl. The Hoosiers will now advance to the CFP Championship Game to take on Miami at Hard Rock Stadium.

Moore's numbers weren't necessarily bad — 24-of-39 for 285 yards, two touchdowns and an interception, but the pick resulted in a touchdown, and he lost two fumbles that also resulted in touchdowns. 

What does all of this have to do with Leavitt?

How does this affect Leavitt's decision? Well, Leavitt has been linked with Miami, LSU and Tennessee thus far, but he is a native of West Linn, Oregon and would certainly entertain an opportunity to go back to his home state and play for the Ducks. If Moore decides to return, it's unlikely Moore would go there and compete with an established starter. 

The quarterback options for Miami are fast fading. Brendan Sorsby was reportedly the Hurricanes' top option, but he signed with Texas Tech for a ton of money. There are still some solid players left — DJ Lagway didn't commit to Baylor as previously reported, and Dylan Raiola hasn't signed yet, but Leavitt would appear to be the top option of the group remaining. 

We're in the final week of the transfer portal, and it closes on January 16. Miami still has plenty of work to do before the 2026 roster is complete, but the Hurricanes are also focused on next Monday's game. Buckle up, because the next six days are going to be wild.