Connect with us

FOOTBALL

Michigan football safety Rod Moore is turning heads following spring practice

Rod Moore, a standout for Michigan football, is not done turning heads on a national scale.

Published

on

Michigan football safety Rod Moore
https://mgoblue.com/sports/football/roster/rod-moore/24389

Last season, Michigan football safety Rod Moore made a significant impact as a first-year starter for the Wolverines, garnering nationwide attention for his impressive athleticism and defensive versatility. Despite being initially regarded as a three-star prospect, Moore’s performance on the field turned heads across the country. He played a crucial role in leading the Wolverines to an outstanding 13-1 overall record, which included securing the Big Ten title.

As the team transitions from spring practices and the spring game at Michigan Stadium into summer ball, Moore continues to capture the national spotlight with his exceptional skills and contributions. His remarkable abilities and standout performances have once again drawn attention from observers nationwide. Moore’s continued impact is a testament to his talent and dedication, and he remains a player to watch as he further solidifies his reputation on the national stage.

Michigan football safety Rod Moore in the Maize and Blue thus far

Since his time in high school, Moore has exceeded expectations. Despite being initially considered a three-star prospect, his performance in Ann Arbor has demonstrated that he should have been ranked as a four or even five-star prospect. Over the course of two seasons with the Maize and Blue, Moore has consistently impressed, securing a starting role and establishing himself as one of the top defensive players expected to be chosen early in the upcoming NFL Draft.

During his freshman year in 2021, Moore showcased his skills in 11 out of Michigan’s 14 games. His outstanding performance earned him the shared title of Michigan’s Defensive Rookie of the Year. Building on his success, in his sophomore season in 2022, Moore solidified his position as a starting safety and emerged as one of the finest players in the Big Ten.

Moore’s remarkable achievements in 2022 included receiving an All-Big Ten honorable mention from both coaches and media, as well as the Wolverines’ Defensive Player of the Year Award. His impressive statistics of 71 tackles (48 solo), four interceptions, and three defended passes played a vital role in Michigan’s triumphant 13-1 season, where they clinched the Big Ten title.

As we enter 2023, Moore is now burdened with high expectations as a junior leader of the formidable Wolverine defense, which is stacked with talented players.

Pro Football Focus ranks Moore among the nation’s top 5

In anticipation of the upcoming 2023 season, Pro Football Focus has revealed their rankings of the top 10 returning safeties in college football. Making an impressive appearance in the top 5 of PFF’s list is none other than Rod Moore, the standout safety from the Michigan football team. Regarded as one of the most formidable defensive weapons in the nation, Moore has earned this recognition through his exceptional skills and performances.

After the conclusion of spring practice, PFF has placed Moore as the fifth-best safety in the country, solidifying his status as a premier player in his position. Additionally, he has been hailed as the top safety in the highly competitive Big Ten conference. With Moore leading the way, the Wolverines boast an incredibly talented secondary, showcasing their depth and ability to dominate opposing offenses in the upcoming 2023 season.

Pro Football Focus recognizes Moore’s remarkable abilities and contributions, further cementing his reputation as a defensive force to be reckoned with. His presence on the field will undoubtedly make a significant impact, and the Wolverines can confidently rely on his skills as they strive for success in the upcoming season.

Here is what PFF had to say about Moore’s elite ranking:

“Moore is arguably the most well-rounded safety in the country heading into next season and was an honorable mention All-American for PFF in 2022. He was one of two Power Five safeties in 2022 who earned 80-plus grades both in coverage and as a run defender. The other, Alabama’s Brian Branch, is a top-10 prospect on PFF’s 2023 NFL Draft big board. Moore’s four interceptions were tied for seventh among Power Five safeties.”



Thank you for reading Blue by Ninety. For more Michigan Athletics content from Blue by Ninety, follow us on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram. You can also subscribe to our YouTube Channel. For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Managing Editor at Cj@BluebyNinety.com. Also, be sure to check out our shop and our podcast, which is available on Apple PodcastsSpotify, and all other streaming platforms. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing and most influential Michigan media outlets there is!

CJ has covered college athletics in paid roles for around five years, including numerous sports and beats. His most recent work revolves largely around Penn State and Michigan football and basketball as a member of the credentialed media at both schools. Right now, CJ writes for Blue by Ninety, where he also serves as the site's credentialed football reporter. He also does some credentialed basketball coverage. Previously, CJ has made stops with sites like GBMWolverine, Saturday Blitz, Steeler Nation, and more.

TRENDING