USC Suspends Linebacker Desman Stephens II for One Game After Hit on Dante Moore
Stephens will miss the Trojans' game against Washington following an ejection for targeting and subsequent celebration.
University of Southern California (USC) announced Sunday that it has suspended linebacker Desman Stephens II for one game. The suspension comes in the wake of a hit on Oregon quarterback Dante Moore and Stephens’ subsequent on-field celebration.
Stephens will miss the Trojans’ upcoming game against Washington after he leveled Moore with a forearm while the quarterback was sliding in the second quarter of Saturday’s game. Moore remained motionless on the field for a significant period and was taken to a hospital. Stephens was called for targeting and ejected from the game.
Following the play, Stephens was observed celebrating with teammates and smiling on the sideline. USC coach Lincoln Riley issued a statement addressing the incident.
"Desman’s actions in last night’s game are unacceptable and are not reflective of USC football nor of his personal character," Riley stated. "He understands his mistake, accepts the consequences of his actions and will learn from this. The entire Trojan Family wishes Dante a full recovery, and we send our best regards to him and his family."
Stephens also released an apology for his behavior during the Trojans' 41-27 loss to Oregon.
"Seeing a player injured like that is incredibly serious, and my reaction in the moments afterward was completely inappropriate and inexcusable," Stephens said. "Regardless of what was going through my mind at the time, there is no justification for smiling or celebrating while another player receives medical attention.
"I take full responsibility for my actions. That is not the person or teammate I want to be, and I will learn from this.
"I am deeply sorry to Dante, his family and everyone who saw my reaction. It is not representative of USC or our program. I hope he makes a full and speedy recovery."
Oregon coach Dan Lanning reported after the game that Moore had regained some movement after being transported to the hospital.
USC dropped six spots to No. 18 in the Associated Press poll released Sunday following the loss.