USC Linebacker Ejected After Serious Hit on Oregon Quarterback

Some moments in football are definitely worth celebrating—those game-changing plays that electrify both players and fans alike. But this, unfortunately, was not one of them.

During a game on Saturday, USC junior linebacker Desman Stephens II was ejected after delivering a brutal forearm strike to Oregon quarterback Dante Moore. This happened as Moore was attempting to slide near the Trojans’ 15-yard line early in the second quarter.

Moore remained motionless on the field, leading to a eerie scene where he was placed on a stretcher.

As the medical team surrounded Moore, the atmosphere in the Coliseum shifted dramatically. Instead of staying focused on the game, players began to argue and shove each other, while coaches rushed onto the field to break things up.

After getting Moore onto a gurney, he was quickly taken to a nearby hospital for further evaluation.

Stephens was flagged for targeting and ejected from the game, with both teams receiving offsetting penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct.

However, the most unsettling moment came afterward. As Moore was being attended to—and despite the seriousness of the situation—Stephens was seen celebrating and giving high-fives to his USC teammates.

This drew criticism from many observers. Videos circulating online captured Stephens laughing and seemingly mocking the Oregon sideline, a move that some regarded as insensitive given the circumstances.

As the crowd witnessed Moore being taken off the field, many USC fans stood up to applaud the injured quarterback, which showcased a commendable respect amidst a worrying situation.

Before leaving the field, Moore had completed 8 of 10 passes for 77 yards. Following his exit, backup quarterback Dylan Raiola came in and quickly threw a 3-yard touchdown pass, putting Oregon ahead 10-7.