espn
USC’s Desman Stephens will miss his team’s next game.
On Saturday, Stephens delivered a brutal hit on Oregon QB Dante Moore that knocked Moore out of the game on a stretcher.
Dante Moore laid down lifeless after a BIG hit 😳 pic.twitter.com/Cs2hB5e7HR
— BrickCenter (@BrickCenter_) September 27, 2026
After the hit, Stephens celebrated and taunted the Oregon sideline, which nearly led to a brawl between the two teams.
Dante Moore laid out on the field motionless and Desman Stephens is celebrating and taunting the Oregon sideline. INSANE pic.twitter.com/7cMCcBpSso
— Hater Report (@HaterReport) September 27, 2026
Tensions flare between Oregon and USC after a late hit on Dante Moore, who received medical attention on the field.
(via @BriAmaranthus) pic.twitter.com/4amkGwVCOo
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 27, 2026
On Sunday, USC head coach Lincoln Riley revealed that the school was suspending Stephens for one game over his actions.
“Desman’s actions in last night’s game are unacceptable and are not reflective of USC Football nor of his personal character. 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 apologized for the celebration.
“I want to sincerely apologize for my actions during yesterday’s game.Seeing a player injured like that is incredibly serious, and my reaction in the moments afterward was completely inappropriate and inexcusable. 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.”