Remembering Rahim Moore's standout 2009 season

The 2009 UCLA Bruins had a rough offense. The same cannot be said about the defense, as it helped them get seven wins. One of those defenders had one of the best seasons ever for a UCLA defensive back. Rahim Moore finished the season with 10 interceptions and a second team All-American selection. Being one of nine players from that defense find their ways onto NFL rosters.

Moore led a UCLA defensive backfield that included fellow All-American Alterraun Verner. Helping UCLA be one of the premier defenses in the country. It is remarkable what they were able to accomplish with an offense that finished in the bottom 20 for the season. Moore often made big time plays and became the first player in seven years to record double digit interceptions in a season. Being labeled as a ballhawk and always finding his way around the football. Number three was a menace for the Bruins defense.

Moore had three games on the season with at least two interceptions. Including starting the season with back to back multiple interception games. Three against San Diego State and two against Tennessee. Elevating UCLA to a 2-0 record even though they were struggling mightily to move the ball on offense. Rick Neuheisel was able to lean on his elite defense to save games.

Moore would go on to have a decent five-year NFL career. After being a second-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. He would spend four years there and one with the Houston Texans. Racking up nine interceptions and 213 total tackles. With his best season coming in 2014 with four interceptions. His 10-interception season in 2009 is still double the most by a Bruin over the last 15 years. The closest being Alex Johnson with five in 2023.