Southern California has suspended linebacker Desman Stephens II for one game for his conduct during the Trojans' loss to Oregon on Saturday.
The suspension comes after Stephens laid a hit with his forearm on Oregon quarterback Dante Moore as the former was coming down for a slide at the end of a quarterback keeper in the second quarter. Moore was stretchered off the field and be taken to the hospital for further evaluation.
Stephens will be suspended for USC's Week 5 game against Washington on Saturday, Oct. 3.
"Desman's actions in last night's game are unacceptable and are not reflective of USC Football nor of his personal character," USC coach Lincoln Riley said in a statement. "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."
As noted by USA TODAY's Jordan Mendoza, Stephens was seen seemingly celebrating the late hit as he made his way back to the sideline.
In a statement provided by USC, Stephens apologized for his actions and took full responsibility for them.
"I want to sincerely apologize for my actions during yesterday's game," Stephens said in the statement. "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. 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."
CBS Sports' Matt Zeintz reported on Sunday that Moore sustained a concussion from the hit and isn’t believed to have sustained any additional injuries.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USC suspends Desman Stephens one game for Dante Moore hit, 'unacceptable' actions
