USC Suspends LB Desman Stephens for 1 Game After Dangerous Hit on Oregon QB Dante Moore

Southern California has suspended linebacker Desman Stephens II for one game following his dangerous hit on Oregon quarterback Dante Moore during Saturday's college football game.

USC announced the suspension on Sunday, September 27, after Stephens was ejected for targeting during the Trojans' 41-27 loss to Oregon at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. He will miss USC's upcoming game against Washington on October 3.

What Happened to Dante Moore?

The incident occurred during the second quarter when Oregon quarterback Dante Moore scrambled toward the USC red zone and attempted to slide.

Stephens moved in on the play and made forceful contact with Moore. The hit was ruled targeting, resulting in Stephens' ejection.

Moore's head hit the turf, and medical personnel quickly attended to the Oregon quarterback. He was eventually taken from the field on a stretcher and transported by ambulance for further evaluation.

Oregon went on to win the game 41-27, with backup quarterback Dylan Raiola taking over after Moore left the game.

USC Announces One-Game Suspension

USC announced that Stephens would be suspended for one game because of his conduct during the Oregon game.

The suspension means Stephens will not play against Washington on October 3.

USC head coach Lincoln Riley said Stephens' actions were unacceptable and did not represent USC football or the player's character. Riley also expressed support for Moore and his family.

Desman Stephens Apologizes

Stephens issued an apology after the incident and acknowledged that his reaction following the hit was inappropriate.

He said he takes responsibility for his actions and expressed regret for smiling or celebrating while Moore was receiving medical attention. Stephens also apologized directly to Moore, his family and those who witnessed the incident.

Stephens Was Ejected for Targeting

Stephens was immediately ejected from the game after officials determined that the play involved targeting.

Under the 2026 college football rules, the automatic consequences for a first targeting offense have changed. Stephens' one-game absence against Washington is therefore the result of USC's own disciplinary decision rather than an automatic first-offense carryover suspension.

Oregon's Response

The incident sparked a confrontation between players from both teams as Moore received medical attention on the field.

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning strongly criticized the play after the game, while USC coach Lincoln Riley also emphasized his concern for Moore's recovery.

Oregon ultimately overcame the difficult moment and defeated USC 41-27.

What Comes Next for USC?

USC will now prepare for its October 3 matchup against Washington without Stephens.

The linebacker has been an important part of the Trojans' defense, but the team will have to adjust its defensive lineup for the upcoming game.

Meanwhile, attention remains on Moore's recovery following the frightening incident. Reports said Moore was able to move his extremities after the hit and was taken for medical evaluation.

Final Takeaway

USC's one-game suspension of Desman Stephens comes after a controversial targeting hit on Oregon quarterback Dante Moore and Stephens' reaction immediately afterward.

Stephens has apologized and accepted responsibility, while USC has confirmed that he will miss the Trojans' October 3 game against Washington.

The incident has become one of the most discussed moments from the latest college football weekend as fans and teams await further updates on Moore's condition.

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USC suspends linebacker Desman Stephens for one game after a targeting hit on Oregon QB Dante Moore. Stephens apologized following the controversial incident.