For Tennessee offensive lineman Nic Moore, earning a starting role this season has been about more than proving himself on the field. It’s also given the East Tennessee native an opportunity to represent his hometown.
The sophomore has made four starts this season, including three at left guard after injuries forced changes along the Volunteers’ offensive line.
Moore started Tennessee’s season opener against Furman at center, playing 62 snaps without allowing a quarterback pressure. He then transitioned to left guard against Auburn, Arkansas and Alabama, playing every offensive snap in those three victories without surrendering a sack.
His performance helped Tennessee rush for 237 yards against Auburn and produce 414 yards of total offense at Arkansas.
“I was very excited to be able to get a starting role,” Moore said Monday. “It was kind of nervous at first because I knew it’s been a while since I played guard, but as I got to practice a little bit more, I got more confident into it, and I was just excited for Saturday to hit.”
The adjustment has required Moore to focus on details like footwork, hand placement, and pass protection.
“I think that coming off from last season to this season, something that’s been big in my mind has just been improving on my details and what I need to do, whatever position I wound up playing,” Moore said.
While Moore continues developing in his expanded role, the opportunity carries additional significance because of his East Tennessee roots.
A former Jefferson County standout and four-star prospect, Moore was named the Region 1-6A Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2024 before enrolling at Tennessee.
“I think that it’s been very rewarding, especially since like I know that I have people back home who’s looked up to me for such time,” Moore said. “And just to be able to be out there in the lights and to show them that they can also do what I do as well.”
For Moore, contributing to Tennessee’s success while representing his community has made the experience particularly meaningful.
“It’s just been great for me to be able to be a light to my community back home,” Moore said.
