Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 27
USC Suspends Desman Stephens II for 1 Game After Hit Hospitalized Oregon QB Dante Moore
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 27

USC Suspends Desman Stephens II for 1 Game After Hit Hospitalized Oregon QB Dante Moore

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 27

Summary

  • 1-game suspension and formal apologies came Sunday after USC defensive back Desman Stephens II celebrated a late hit that sent Oregon quarterback Dante Moore to a hospital by ambulance.
  • NBC footage showed Stephens smiling on the sideline while Moore was treated on the field, intensifying backlash after the targeting ejection nearly sparked a fight.
  • Lincoln Riley called the conduct unacceptable and said Stephens will miss USC's next game against Washington; Stephens said his reaction was inappropriate and inexcusable.
  • Dan Lanning labeled the hit disgusting, though Oregon had not issued a medical update on Moore beyond saying he was moving and still being assessed.
  • The incident overshadowed No. 12 USC's 41-27 loss to Oregon, the Trojans' fifth straight defeat to the Ducks.

Insights

Could a controversial late hit and a shocking sideline celebration force the Big Ten to impose unprecedented disciplinary actions?
Will the NCAA change its ejection rules after a suspended player's sideline celebration sparked national outrage?