University of Southern California star linebacker Desman Stephens II spoke out after drawing major criticism for celebrating after an illegal hit that sent Oregon quarterback Dante Moore to the hospital.
“I want to sincerely apologize for my actions during yesterday’s game,” Stephens, 20, said in a statement on Sunday, September 27. “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.”
He added, “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.”
Stephens hit Moore, 21, with a brutal head shot while the quarterback was sliding to the ground during the second quarter of the Oregon-USC game at the Coliseum in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 26. After Moore was tended to by medical staff for a lengthy amount of time, he was loaded onto a stretcher and taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation.
Immediately after the hit, Stephens was seen celebrating and taunting the Oregon players who had rushed to Moore’s side as he lay on the field.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley also issued a statement about Stephens’ behavior.
“Desman’s actions in last night’s game are unacceptable and are not reflective of USC football nor of his personal character,” Riley, 43, said on Sunday. “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 suspended Stephens one game for his actions, meaning the linebacker will not be available when the Trojans host the University of Washington on Saturday, October 3.
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning provided a hopeful update about Moore on Sunday.
“Fortunately, his MRI and CT scans came back clean and he did not suffer any additional injuries,” Lanning, 40, said in a statement. “Every concussion is different, and we are going to move forward with an abundance of caution to ensure we make the best decisions for Dante and his future.”
The head coach continued, “We are extremely appreciative of our entire medical staff and the medical staffs at USC and LA General [Medical Center] for their quick and thorough action in making sure Dante received the very best care possible.”
Moore was released from the hospital and traveled back to Eugene with his teammates, according to On3.
Backup quarterback Dylan Raiola came into the game in Moore’s absence, helping guide the Ducks to a 41-27 victory over USC on Saturday. Oregon returns to action on Saturday, October 10, when they host UCLA.
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