The University of Southern California’s athletic department issued a public apology Sunday for what it called an “offensive chant” that came from its student section during BYU’s 35-31 win Saturday night over the Trojans.
“The offensive chant from our student section directed towards BYU during the football game last night does not align with our Trojan values,” the department said in a statement on Twitter. “It was distasteful and we apologize to the BYU program.”
The chant in question appeared to be “F--- the Mormons,” which was tweeted by multiple users on Twitter either during the game or later in response to USC’s statement and a question by The Salt Lake Tribune.
USC defensive line coach Vic So’oto also issued his own statement on Twitter and tagged Cougar coach Kalani Sitake and athletic director Tom Holmoe.
“I did not hear the chant but I know it does not reflect the Trojan family that I’ve come to know and love,” So’oto tweeted. “Sincere apologies from an alum @BYU @BYUfootball @kalanifsitake @TomHolmoe. All love. Hard fought game.”
So’oto played four years at BYU, first as a tight end and then on defense. Quarterback Jaxson Dart and linebacker Tayler Katoa are both from Utah and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which owns BYU.
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