Lanning Denounces Disgusting Late Hit That Sends Oregon QB Dante Moore to Hospital

Desman Stephens II Suspended One Game After Targeting Foul on Dante Moore

USC suspended linebacker Desman Stephens II for one game following his conduct during the matchup against Oregon, the program announced. Stephens will sit out the Trojans’ October 3 game against Washington following his disqualification for targeting during the second quarter at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Moore scrambled and attempted to slide when Stephens delivered a forearm hit to the quarterback’s head, driving him hard into the turf. The Oregon starter lay motionless on the field, exhibiting a fencing response before medical personnel strapped him to a stretcher and loaded him into an ambulance bound for Los Angeles General County Hospital.

“He’s in recovery so I don’t want to speak too soon but he is moving and he does have the ability to move.”

Dan Lanning, Oregon head coach, via Yahoo

An Oregon spokesperson confirmed that Moore had movement in all extremities during his evaluation. Sources told CBS Sports that Moore was diagnosed with a concussion.

Dan Lanning and Lincoln Riley React to the On-Field Altercation

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning condemned the play immediately after the Ducks’ 41-27 victory over the Trojans, labeling it disgusting. Scuffles broke out between players as Moore lay on the turf, leading to offsetting unsportsmanlike conduct penalties for both teams.

There’s a reason targeting exists in football, and that’s as clear as day targeting.

Dan Lanning, Oregon head coach, via The Guardian

Stephens watched the remainder of the game from the sideline after his ejection, drawing heavy criticism on social media and the NBC broadcast for smiling and celebrating with teammates while Moore received medical attention. USC head coach Lincoln Riley stated that he did not witness his linebacker’s sideline exultation.

I did not see it.

Lincoln Riley, USC head coach, via Los Angeles Times

Riley permitted Stephens to remain on the bench rather than sending him to the locker room, explaining to reporters that the junior linebacker stayed because he belongs to the team. Lanning noted that Riley quickly approached him after the final whistle to inquire about Moore’s condition.

Public Apologies and Disciplinary Fallout for USC

Following widespread backlash, Stephens set his Instagram account to private in response to negative comments. He subsequently issued a public statement accepting full responsibility for his actions.

I take full responsibility for my actions.

Desman Stephens II, USC linebacker, via CBS Sports

Stephens described his behavior immediately following the injury as completely inappropriate and inexcusable. USC coach Lincoln Riley echoed those sentiments in the university’s disciplinary announcement, noting that the player understood his mistake and accepted the consequences.

Backup quarterback Dylan Raiola stepped in for Oregon, completing 19 of 25 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns to secure the road win. Moore finished his afternoon 8 of 10 for 77 passing yards before exiting.