On Saturday night, NBC’s Chris Simms faced intense criticism on social media for his comments during the halftime of the Oregon-USC game. His remarks pertained to a violent hit that sent Ducks quarterback Dante Moore to the hospital. Simms suggested that Moore was to blame for the incident.
Simms stated, “It was a Debbie Downer moment. I guess you have to have a soft spot in your heart for defenders right now. Dante Moore is 6-3, 240 pounds, he’s running at you. The defender Stephens is bracing himself, getting ready to get low to make the tackle.” He added, “So, yes, you as a defender have to know in this day and age that you have to be careful with the quarterback. But I’m going to also say, Dante Moore, I do think he slid very late and put the defender in a kind of no-win situation.”
Following a backlash from fans, Simms took to social media on Sunday to offer an apology. He expressed remorse for his insensitive comments regarding Moore’s injury. He said, “I’d like to take a moment to apologize to everyone for the way I handled the halftime last night between the Oregon Ducks and the USC Trojans.”
Simms acknowledged his lack of sympathy and conveyed respect for both the Oregon Ducks and Dante Moore, whom he described as one of his favorite players in college football. Simms also extended his respect to Dan Lanning and what he does for the Oregon Duck football organization. Reflecting on his own experience of a severe hit on the field 20 years ago, Simms recognized the brutality of the game and the importance of player safety.
Although some fans remain skeptical of Simms’ apology, viewing it as a response to backlash, he has recognized his mistake and admitted his comments were inappropriate.