The hit then raised debate over possible additional punishment under the NCAA’s updated targeting rules. The future of USC linebacker Desman Stephens II remains uncertain after his controversial hit on Oregon quarterback Dante Moore.
Stephens was ejected during Saturday’s game after delivering a hit that sent Moore to the ground and forced the Oregon quarterback to leave the field on a stretcher. Officials ruled the play a targeting violation after Stephens made forceful contact with Moore’s head and neck area as the quarterback attempted to slide.
Under the current 2026 trial rules, a player disqualified for targeting must leave the remainder of the game. Additional penalties depend on whether the player has previous targeting violations during the season. A player who receives a second targeting penalty in the same season must miss the first half of the following game. A third targeting violation results in a full-game suspension. If the violation occurred during the second half, they also missed the first half of the next game. NBC analysts criticized the behavior during the broadcast, calling the reaction a poor look for USC.
Stephens appeared to celebrate after the play and was seen smiling and interacting with teammates on the sideline, according to Yahoo Sports. Chris Simms said, “The fact that Desman Stephens II was over on the sidelines laughing, guys were coming over to him dapping him up, like saying ‘Good job,’” He added. “That was a bad look for USC.”
Previously, players disqualified for targeting had to sit out the remainder of the game.
