Offensive line benefits from Moore's versatility, experience
Redshirt senior offensive lineman Jakai Moore can, and has, played at nearly every position on the line for the Gamecocks.
His variety of skills and 6-foot-6 frame have helped him appear in 33 games, including 19 starts across three different positions.
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Moore started five games at left tackle last season. He then finished the year with three straight starts at left guard. South Carolina featured him on the left side of the protection for most of last season.
Moore is more than confident in his ability to play wherever he is needed.
“My main thing is just being versatile. I can work left tackle, left guard, right guard, and right tackle,” Moore said. “So, just being versatile. Whatever position I get put in I go over and play it and do my best.”
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Now in his fifth year in Columbia, Moore reflected on the impact he felt from his former teammates on the line who have graduated or entered the NFL Draft.
“They were my boys so like I really learned a lot from them and gained a lot of knowledge from them. I felt like it put me in a better position this year to really just go in and solidify things,” Moore said.
Soaking up knowledge from his fellow program veterans is a priority for Moore. He shared that those conversations have empowered him to lead by example.
“They helped me build off them, so I feel like it gave me confidence,” Moore said. “Talking with the other old lineman and teammates and players just on how to do the right things and how to move the right way.”
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In addition to his play on the field, Moore expects to have an impact from a leadership perspective. He was also quick to compliment the younger group of linemen.
“I do feel like I’m one of the leaders on the offensive line. But I also feel like we gained a lot of players that can come in and do their job. But they’re also building up to be leaders too.”
The spring session provides the chance for Moore to further establish his presence on and off the field. Asserting his status as a full starter on the left and being willing to fill in across the line will lead to a successful final season for Moore with the Gamecocks.
