A hard hit on quarterback Dante Moore resulted in linebacker Desman Stephens II being disqualified from Saturday night’s game between USC and Oregon. This also resulted in Stephens being suspended for one game.
USC announced Sunday that Stephens would not play in the next game, against Washington.
“Desman’s actions during last night’s game are unacceptable and do not reflect USC Football or his personal character,” the school said. “He understands his mistake, accepts the consequences of his actions and will learn from them. The entire Trojan family wishes Dante a full recovery and we send our best regards to him and his family.”
Stephens also released a statement apologizing to Moore, both for the hit and for his celebration.
“My reaction in the moments that followed was completely inappropriate and inexcusable,” Stephens said. “No matter what was going through my mind at the time, there is no reason to smile or celebrate while another player receives medical attention.”
The poor optics were complicated by USC allowing Stephens back on the sideline for the second half of the game, and by coach Lincoln Riley appearing surprised when asked by reporters about it. “Because he’s on our football team” Riley said.
For the next match, it will not be. Some will say he should have played more than one match.
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