In a high‑stakes non‑conference game at the Los Angeles Coliseum, Oregon quarterback Dante Moore was forced to leave the field on a stretcher after a late hit by USC linebacker Desman Stephens. The incident occurred in the second quarter when Moore was sliding to complete an 11‑yard run toward the USC 12‑yard line.
Targeting call and on‑field reaction
Stephens entered low and struck Moore in the head and chest with his shoulder. The impact snapped Moore’s head back onto the turf, prompting officials to assess a targeting foul and eject Stephens. Both teams received unsportsmanlike conduct penalties as players from each side rushed the field in a brief but heated exchange.
Medical response and removal
Medical personnel quickly attended to Moore, who was placed in a neck brace and secured to a cart. He was then moved a short distance to a waiting ambulance at the base of the Coliseum tunnel. Coach Dan Lanning told NBC that Moore retained movement in both hands and his extremities, indicating no immediate loss of function.
Impact on the game
The Ducks, ranked No. 20, saw the game delayed for roughly 15 minutes while Moore was carefully treated and removed. Backup quarterback Dylan Raiola stepped in, completing a touchdown pass to Evan Stewart on his second snap, giving Oregon a 10‑7 lead.
Despite the setback, Oregon remains a strong contender for the upcoming NFL draft, with Moore projected as a high pick. He had previously announced his return to the Ducks for the current season, surprising many after his potential early departure last April.
USC’s perspective
Stephens, a junior from Clarkston, Michigan, returned to the Trojans’ locker room after the incident, though not before a series of heated sideline exchanges with Oregon players. The linebacker, who recorded 89 tackles last season, will miss the remainder of the game due to the ejection.
Looking ahead
Both programs will assess the injury and disciplinary outcomes as the season progresses. Oregon will rely on Raiola and other depth players while Moore recovers, and USC will look to adjust its defensive approach without Stephens.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
