Desmond Stevens II apologizes for celebration after Dante Moore’s injury
29 september 2026 в 05:37
USC player Desman Stephens II issued an apology after his actions on the field drew criticism. This occurred after he celebrated an illegal hit that sent Oregon University quarterback Dante Moore to the hospital.
In his statement made on September 27, Stephens, 20, noted: «I sincerely apologize for my actions during yesterday’s game. Seeing a player get injured is very serious, and my reaction at that moment was completely inappropriate and unacceptable. Regardless of what was going on in my head, there is no excuse for smiling or celebrating while another player is receiving medical attention. I take full responsibility for my actions». He added that he does not want to be that kind of person or teammate and hopes that Dante recovers quickly.
Stephens hit Moore, 21, in the head as he was attempting to land during the second half of the game between Oregon and USC, which took place on September 26 in Los Angeles. After receiving medical attention, Moore was placed on a stretcher and transported to the nearest hospital for evaluation.
Immediately after the hit, Stephens was seen celebrating and taunting Oregon players who rushed to Moore, who was lying on the field. USC head coach Lincoln Riley also commented on Stephens' behavior, calling his actions unacceptable and not reflective of USC’s character. He added that Stephens understands his mistake and will face the consequences of his actions.
The University of Southern California suspended Stephens for one game, meaning he will not be able to participate in the game against the University of Washington, which is scheduled for October 3.
Oregon University head coach Dan Lanning reported positive news regarding Moore’s condition, noting that his MRI and CT scans showed no additional injuries. He emphasized the importance of a cautious approach to Moore’s recovery and expressed gratitude to the USC and LA General medical staff for their prompt assistance.
Moore was discharged from the hospital and returned to Eugene with the team. In his place, backup quarterback Dylan Raiola stepped in and helped the team secure a 41−27 victory. Oregon will return to the field on October 10 when they host UCLA.
In his statement made on September 27, Stephens, 20, noted: «I sincerely apologize for my actions during yesterday’s game. Seeing a player get injured is very serious, and my reaction at that moment was completely inappropriate and unacceptable. Regardless of what was going on in my head, there is no excuse for smiling or celebrating while another player is receiving medical attention. I take full responsibility for my actions». He added that he does not want to be that kind of person or teammate and hopes that Dante recovers quickly.
Stephens hit Moore, 21, in the head as he was attempting to land during the second half of the game between Oregon and USC, which took place on September 26 in Los Angeles. After receiving medical attention, Moore was placed on a stretcher and transported to the nearest hospital for evaluation.
Immediately after the hit, Stephens was seen celebrating and taunting Oregon players who rushed to Moore, who was lying on the field. USC head coach Lincoln Riley also commented on Stephens' behavior, calling his actions unacceptable and not reflective of USC’s character. He added that Stephens understands his mistake and will face the consequences of his actions.
The University of Southern California suspended Stephens for one game, meaning he will not be able to participate in the game against the University of Washington, which is scheduled for October 3.
Oregon University head coach Dan Lanning reported positive news regarding Moore’s condition, noting that his MRI and CT scans showed no additional injuries. He emphasized the importance of a cautious approach to Moore’s recovery and expressed gratitude to the USC and LA General medical staff for their prompt assistance.
Moore was discharged from the hospital and returned to Eugene with the team. In his place, backup quarterback Dylan Raiola stepped in and helped the team secure a 41−27 victory. Oregon will return to the field on October 10 when they host UCLA.
© Smirnova Olga
