USC Suspends Desman Stephens II

USC suspended linebacker Desman Stephens II for one game after his late hit on Oregon quarterback Dante Moore during Saturday’s game. Moore was taken to a hospital after the hit, was carted off on a stretcher, and was later evaluated in Los Angeles. The hit came as Moore slid on a scramble, when Stephens struck him in the head and neck area. Officials called targeting, a rule barring dangerous hits to defenseless players, and ejected Stephens. USC coach Lincoln Riley called the action unacceptable, while Stephens apologized for his reaction afterward. Oregon coach Dan Lanning called the hit disgusting. Moore suffered a concussion and is expected back this season.