Senior defensive back slow to rise after collision during dominant defensive display by Oregon.
During a tense matchup between the Oregon Ducks and the Wisconsin Badgers, senior defensive back Dontae Manning suffered a concerning injury after colliding with a teammate during a critical defensive play. Manning was slow to rise, prompting an injury timeout that left fans holding their breath.
The play occurred during man-coverage on Wisconsin’s crossing route, resulting in a pivotal defensive stop on third down. However, the Ducks’ celebration was muted by the sight of Manning down on the field. Oregon’s medical staff attended to the veteran player for several minutes before escorting him to the sidelines.
This injury comes at an already challenging time for the No. 1-ranked Ducks, who entered the game with eight players on their injury report, including standout defensive lineman Jordan Burch. The potential loss of another key starter underscores the team’s uphill battle to maintain its dominance in college football.
Manning, a mainstay of the Ducks’ defense since his freshman year in 2021, has been a consistent contributor throughout his collegiate career. This season, he has recorded 13 tackles—nine of them solo—and five pass deflections. In 2023, Manning showcased his playmaking ability with a crucial interception in the VRBO Fiesta Bowl against Liberty, marking the first pick of his career. Across his time with Oregon, he has accumulated an impressive 76 tackles (52 solo, 24 assisted) and 13 pass deflections.
After being evaluated in the medical tent, Manning was later seen on the sidelines with trainers focusing on what appeared to be a left leg injury. While the specifics of his condition remain unclear, his absence could significantly impact the Ducks’ defensive depth in the coming games.
Oregon’s defensive unit, despite these setbacks, has continued to assert itself as one of the most formidable in the nation. Their dominant performance against Wisconsin reflects their resilience and depth, but Manning’s status will undoubtedly be a topic of concern moving forward.
This story will be updated as more information about Manning’s injury becomes available.
**Last updated: Nov. 16, 2024, 5:05 PM PT**
