Oregon’s talented quarterback Dante Moore was sent to the hospital Saturday night after a brutal hit from defensive back Desman Stephens II during his team’s game against the USC Trojans.
Stephens pitched to Moore, who slipped after grabbing the ball in the second quarter. The blow caused the back of Moore’s head to hit the ground and he lay there for a moment before being eventually carried off the field.
The incident resulted in a penalty and Stephens was ejected for hitting the ball. Moore was transported to Los Angeles County Memorial Hospital for further evaluation and was diagnosed with a concussion.
Sunday, ESPN Adam Schefter USC has reportedly suspended Stephens for one game after he roughed Moore in the second quarter. The Trojans, ranked No. 18 before losing to No. 15 Oregon 41-27 on Saturday night, will host the Washington Huskies on Saturday, October 3.
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Commentators reacted online after the suspension was announced on Sunday, with many saying the punishment wasn’t harsh enough for Stephens after the vicious final at-bat.
“[expletive] Penalty kick… this guy should have been kicked off the team… actually he did – and then celebrated with his team…” one commenter wrote in response to Schefter’s X post.
“So the Big10 is basically saying it’s OK to intentionally seriously injure a college student and celebrate. Good to know,” another commenter wrote in commenting on the news.
“One game is the final blow. Should be the rest of the season for acting like an idiot afterwards,” one commenter suggested.
After hitting Moore, Stephens celebrated with his teammates and laughed at Oregon State. That sparked a skirmish on the field, with Oregon State players expressing displeasure at Stephens’ antics and a shoving ensued.
The Ducks used backup quarterback Dylan Raiola to replace Moore for the remainder of the game. Raiola finished with 289 passing yards and two touchdowns in the win, helping the Ducks improve to 3-1.
According to ESPN, USC coach Lincoln Riley said in a statement on Sunday: “Desman’s behavior during last night’s game was unacceptable and reflected neither the USC football team nor his personal character. He understands his mistakes, accepts the consequences of his actions, and will provide a sincere lesson to his family from them.”
Stephens has totaled 19 tackles and 0.5 sacks this season for the Trojans, who fell to 4-1 with Saturday night’s loss.
It’s a horrific injury and it could have been worse, but Oregon is optimistic about Moore’s return. CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz reported Sunday that the star quarterback will undergo concussion treatment and is expected to return this season.
Oregon State has a week off after their recent win and will next host the No. 23 UCLA Bruins on Saturday, October 10.
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