Dante Moore lands notable QB ranking among Big Ten signal-callers
On the one hand, there are high expectations for Moore, a former 5-star recruit who was rated as the No. 4 player in the 2023 class. In his handful of starts with the UCLA Bruins as a true freshman, he showed some promise, displaying impressive arm talent and accuracy. However, he also struggled with consistency and decision-making, throwing nine interceptions alongside his 11 touchdowns.
Since his freshman season, we haven't seen much of Moore, as he backed up Dillon Gabriel in Eugene last season. While the spring game earlier this year provided a solid opportunity for Moore to impress, it's fair for anyone to still want to see No. 5 in a game before anointing him as the next big thing in Eugene.
So, how do you rank him among Big Ten quarterbacks going into the new season? Put him near the top, and you're risking disappointment, but put him too low, and you leave yourself open to looking foolish should he play up to expectations.
Earlier this week, USA TODAY ranked the passers in the conference from best to worst, with Moore coming in at No. 4 on the list, which is respectable considering his lack of production but high upside.
"Moore started at UCLA in 2023 and then spent last season learning the Ducks' system behind Dillon Gabriel," Paul Myerberg wrote. "Look for the former five-star recruit to grab this opportunity and run with it to become the next super-productive Oregon starter."
Here's how the top 10 QBs fleshed out:
Of course, Moore still has to beat out Austin Novosad to win the QB1 spot this fall, but should he do that, there is a hope among the fanbase that he can lead the Ducks back to the Big Ten Championship game and into the College Football Playoff once again this year.
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