In the world of college football, few mentorships have the potential to shape a program’s future quite like the one between Oregon’s veteran QB Dillon Gabriel and his backup, the rising star Dante Moore. During a recent Rose Bowl practice, Oregon receiver Tez Johnson had fans and reporters alike in awe when he described Moore’s jaw-dropping 60-yard, no-look bomb—a play that had him strutting away like Steph Curry after a perfect shot. While Dillon Gabriel’s Heisman-worthy season might have made him the obvious guess, Johnson’s words instead pointed to Moore, a young prodigy who’s already showing flashes of greatness.
Moore, the former No. 4 overall recruit, had a successful freshman season at UCLA before transferring to Oregon. He is now poised to follow in Gabriel’s footsteps as the next great quarterback for the Ducks. With Gabriel guiding Oregon to a perfect 13-0 record and showcasing his NCAA-record achievements, it’s Moore’s promising potential and raw talent that makes his future even more electrifying.
What makes this transition so smooth is the incredible mentorship Moore is receiving from Gabriel. The two quarterbacks have become inseparable, rooming together during every road trip and spending countless hours breaking down film, discussing strategies, and developing leadership. Gabriel’s unselfishness in mentoring Moore ensures that Oregon’s quarterback future is in safe hands, even once he departs.
Moore’s decision to transfer to Oregon was no accident—he saw the potential to grow and develop under a staff and a leader who could prepare him for a long and successful career. His experience at UCLA laid the foundation, but Oregon’s program has provided the nurturing environment he needed to take his game to the next level.
Although Moore’s role this season has been limited to a few short appearances, his trajectory is set. With offensive coordinator Will Stein’s innovative strategies and Gabriel’s constant guidance, Moore is ready to shine when his time comes. And as Oregon continues its march toward its first-ever national championship, Moore’s future, supported by Gabriel’s mentorship, is bound to leave a lasting legacy in the Pac-12 and beyond.
