Get ready to be inspired by an underdog story that’s turning heads in college football! Damario Moore, a 5-foot-8 freshman wide receiver from Gannon University, has been named the PSAC West Special Teams Player of the Week—and his performance is nothing short of remarkable. But here’s where it gets even more impressive: Moore’s heroics helped Gannon pull off a stunning 38-35 upset over the No. 14/16 ranked Slippery Rock, snapping a decade-long losing streak and securing their first win of the season. Talk about making a statement!
Moore’s breakout moment came midway through the first quarter when he sprinted 89 yards on a kickoff return for a touchdown—Gannon’s first such score since 2013 and the second-longest in school history. And this is the part most people miss: he didn’t stop there. Late in the second quarter, Moore hauled in a 38-yard touchdown reception to tie the game at 28-28, showcasing his versatility as both a return specialist and a playmaking receiver. By day’s end, he had racked up 232 all-purpose yards, including 158 yards on four kickoff returns—the fourth-highest single-game total in Gannon history.
But here’s the controversial part: Can a freshman’s performance in a single game truly redefine a team’s trajectory? Moore’s stats speak for themselves: he’s averaging 25.7 yards on 18 kickoff returns (fourth in the PSAC), has 10 receptions for 217 yards, and leads the team with three receiving touchdowns. His impact is undeniable, yet it raises questions about consistency and whether he can sustain this level of play. What do you think—is Moore a one-game wonder, or is this the start of something special?
Gannon’s next test comes on Saturday, October 11, when they host Clarion at noon. Will Moore continue to shine, or will defenses adjust to his explosive playstyle? One thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on this freshman phenom. Let us know in the comments—do you think Damario Moore is the real deal, or is it too early to crown him a game-changer?
