UCLA spring football takeaways: Dante Moore shows off his five-star skill

UCLA quarterback Ethan Garbers passes against Utah in October 2021.

(Rick Bowmer / Associated Press)

Moore’s poise, footwork and deep-ball accuracy were impressive in offense-against-defense and drill work Tuesday, the product from King High in Detroit rarely making a bad read and asserting himself alongside a new group of playmakers.

He rarely missed a throw, connecting on an impressive deep strike to senior Josiah Norwood and finding junior Logan Loya in tight windows. As much as natural arm talent, fundamentals stood out for Moore, who got the ball out faster and generally made quicker decisions than anyone else behind center.

“He doesn’t put the ball in bad places,” Muasau said.

Redshirt sophomore Ethan Garbers, who served as Thompson-Robinson’s backup the last two seasons, connected on most throws, including a deep strike to Cal transfer J. Michael Sturdivant but lagged slightly on larger attempts and missed a couple of outs.

Kent State transfer Collin Schlee, meanwhile, had a forgettable first day, throwing four interceptions in scrimmage play — just one tipping off a receiver’s hands. Schlee’s arm strength from a slingshot delivery was notable, but the accuracy and decision-making concerns that come with a 59% completion percentage his last year at Kent State persist.

And contrary to the belief this would be a three-horse race among Moore, Garbers and Schlee, freshman Justyn Martin also got his fair share of snaps Tuesday and fired some pinpoint strikes across the middle of the field. Martin’s athleticism and talent are clear; his development will likely hinge on making simpler reads and accuracy to the sidelines.