USC linebacker Desman Stephens suspended one game after targeting incident against Oregon quarterback

USC said linebacker Desman Stephens II will miss the next game after he was ejected for a targeting foul in the second quarter of Saturday’s 41-27 loss to Oregon. Stephens struck quarterback Dante Moore as Moore was attempting to slide, causing Moore to hit his head on the ground and require medical attention. The hit was followed by Stephens celebrating the play on the field, which the university described as unacceptable.

"Desman's actions in last night's game are unacceptable and are not reflective of USC Football nor of his personal character," USC head coach Lincoln Riley said in a statement. "He understands his mistake, accepts the consequences of his actions and will learn from this." Moore was taken to a hospital on a stretcher and was reported to have movement in all extremities while undergoing evaluation. Oregon coach Dan Lanning called the play a “disgusting” incident and said the atmosphere on the sideline changed after the hit. "Seeing a player injured like that is incredibly serious, and my reaction in the moments afterward was completely inappropriate and inexcusable," Stephens wrote in an apology. "I take full responsibility for my actions and am deeply sorry to Dante, his family and everyone who saw my reaction." Riley explained that Stephens was allowed to return to the USC sideline after his ejection because he remains a member of the team. The suspension will be enforced for the upcoming game, and USC reiterated its commitment to player safety and sportsmanship.