Oregon coach Dan Lanning called the hit on quarterback Dante Moore against USC “disgusting”; players said they believed it was intentional. USC linebacker Desman Stephens II was ejected for targeting after hitting Moore as he tried to slide. Moore was taken to a hospital.
Moore lay on the field for several minutes before being stretchered off and taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. Lanning said Moore was recovering and able to move, but declined to speculate about the injury’s severity.
The hit sparked a scuffle and offsetting unsportsmanlike-conduct penalties. Lanning said Oregon wanted to react but praised the team for staying composed. Stephens’ post-play celebration drew criticism on social media and NBC’s broadcast, though Lanning and USC coach Lincoln Riley said they did not see it. Lanning said it would be disappointing if it occurred.
