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Oregon Coach Calls USC Targeting Hit “Disgusting” After Ejection

By Drooid · Sep 27, 2026, 4:06 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Dan Lanning Condemns Hit

Oregon coach Dan Lanning called Desman Stephens II’s targeting hit on quarterback Dante Moore “disgusting.”
Stephens II was ejected, then celebrated with teammates on the sideline.
Moore was stretchered to Los Angeles General Medical Center and showed movement in all extremities.
Backup quarterback Dylan Raiola completed 19 of 25 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns as Oregon beat USC 41-27.

Summary

Desman Stephens Avoids Ban

NCAA’s 2026 targeting rule imposes progressive penalties instead of automatic suspensions.
Desman Stephens II entered the USC-Oregon game with no prior targeting disqualifications this season.
Because his hit was a first-offense targeting, Stephens is eligible to play in USC’s next contest.
Stephens’ ejection removed one of USC’s most prolific linebackers for the remainder of the game.

History

Historical Context

In 2008 the NCAA added a targeting foul that penalized helmet-to-head contact with a 15-yard loss. The rule was expanded in 2013 to require automatic ejection and a carry-over suspension, a change echoed today as Oregon coach Dan Lanning condemned Desman Stephens II’s hit on quarterback Dante Moore. The evolving targeting policy aims to curb severe injuries and shape future rule revisions.

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Dan Lanning Condemns Hit

Oregon coach Dan Lanning called Desman Stephens II’s targeting hit on quarterback Dante Moore “disgusting.”
Stephens II was ejected, then celebrated with teammates on the sideline.
Moore was stretchered to Los Angeles General Medical Center and showed movement in all extremities.
Backup quarterback Dylan Raiola completed 19 of 25 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns as Oregon beat USC 41-27.

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