Dante Moore reflects on his first college football experience, Week 1 scene

Dante Moore came in relief during UCLA’s 27-13 win over Coastal Carolina and the true freshman quarterback simply called it a blessing to be in that position.

Ethan Garbers won the starting job but UCLA might have quarterback questions going into Week 2. One thing’s for sure, Moore looked the part when he was dialed in. Hence the five-star rating, per the On3 Industry Rankings.

Moore was more than grateful to play college football at UCLA and make his debut at home.

“First, being in this position, I know it’s a true blessing to come out here and play my first college football game,” Moore said. “Since we first took off from the facility, I just couldn’t believe how there was no traffic, we were escorted. I was like ‘Wow, I’m really in the college experience” and I just know with everything going on, I just couldn’t believe it.

“I just knew when things happen, like I’ve said, one thing I stand on is God’s timing. And I just knew when my chance got called to go on the field, going out there and seeing Duke [Clemens] look in my eyes and I said ‘Take care of the front five, and I’ll take care of the rest.’ 

Running back Carson Steele definitely helped Moore ease into the offense. Moore credited the veteran back.

“A lot of times, the little plays, having Carson in the backfield, having dominant receivers and T.J. Harden in the backfield as well, it’s a lot. It’s a real good thing,” Moore said. “When we had that drive, when I rolled out, (J.Michael Sturdivant) is a 10.3 100-meter dash runner and seeing him open in the field and raising his hands, I had to give him the ball because I know he’s a playmaker, and you’ve got to to give playmakers the ball … It was a good drive, it was many good drives, and I’m glad we got a team win.”

The Rose Bowl is often considered the peak of college football. There’s a reason the game itself is called the “GrandDaddy of Them All.” 

But the fact Moore plays his home games there? Well, that’s pretty awesome.

“I know when I took my visit here, just walking into the Rose Bowl Stadium and the tradition that is has, it’s really amazing that I get to call this my home field,” Moore said. “Really just come out here with my teammates and have a blast. I walked out onto the field, and I was just smiling at how beautiful it was. 

“The craziest moment was when we were running out and the lights were flashing and seeing all the fans shouting and screaming. It was really an amazing moment. I went to the field goal posts and just sat down. It was an appreciative moment, like I can’t believe I’m playing in the Rose Bowl.”

Moore finished the game seven-of-12 passing for 143 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

At 1-0, UCLA returns to the field on the road Saturday when the Bruins take on San Diego State.