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USC didn’t just lose to Oregon. Lincoln Riley fumbled away the Trojans’ integrity.

Columnist Mirjam Swanson writes USC coach Lincoln Riley's embarrassing lack of leadership cost the Trojans a potential win over Oregon.

Published: Sunday, 27 September 2026 at 11:00 AM
USC didn’t just lose to Oregon. Lincoln Riley fumbled away the Trojans’ integrity.
Key Things to Know
  • Oregon defeated USC with a final score of 41-27 at the Coliseum.
  • USC linebacker Desman Stephens II was ejected for targeting Oregon quarterback Dante Moore.
  • Moore was taken by ambulance to Los Angeles General County Hospital following the hit.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Oregon defeated USC 41-27 on Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. During the second quarter, USC linebacker Desman Stephens II was ejected for a late targeting hit on sliding Oregon quarterback Dante Moore. Moore was subsequently stabilized, placed on a stretcher, and transported by ambulance to Los Angeles General County Hospital.

Following the hit, Stephens celebrated and taunted the Oregon sideline, which sparked a confrontation between the two teams. USC head coach Lincoln Riley stated after the game that he did not see Stephens celebrating and allowed him to remain on the sideline in uniform throughout the second half.

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