USC suspends Desman Stephens II for 'unacceptable' celebration after hit sends Dante Moore to hospital

USC ’s loss to Oregon produced plenty of football questions, but the most urgent issue by Sunday morning had little to do with the final score.

Linebacker Desman Stephens II was suspended for one game after a targeting hit on Oregon quarterback Dante Moore left the Ducks star down on the field for an extended period.

Stephens ’ reaction afterward, smiling and celebrating with teammates while Moore was still receiving medical attention, drew immediate criticism and prompted USC to act.

The suspension means Stephens will miss next weekend’s game against Washington at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Moore was hurt in the second quarter of Oregon’s 41-27 win when he slid at the end of a scramble and Stephens made contact with his forearm.

Moore ’s head struck the turf, and he remained down for nearly 15 minutes before being taken to a hospital. Stephens was ejected for targeting.

Response did not represent USC

The post-play reaction quickly became the bigger issue for the Trojans .

“Desman’s actions in last night’s game are unacceptable and are not reflective of USC football nor of his personal character,” coach Lincoln Riley said in a statement.

“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.”

USC ’s decision came less than a day after the game, signaling how seriously the program viewed what happened after the hit.

Stephens also released a statement acknowledging that his reaction was indefensible.

“Seeing a player injured like that is incredibly serious, and my reaction in the moments afterward was completely inappropriate and inexcusable,” he 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.”

Moore’s condition remains bigger concern

Oregon coach Dan Lanning said after the game that Moore had regained some movement before being transported to the hospital.

That was the first encouraging sign after a frightening scene that briefly stopped the game and overshadowed much of Oregon ’s victory.

The Trojans will now move forward without Stephens against Washington , but the larger concern remains Moore’s health. USC has already made its judgment on the conduct. Stephens ’ own apology makes clear he understands why.