Freshman Rahim Moore on secondary

When UCLA’s 2009 recruiting class came to camp in the summer, many expected the true freshmen to play an integral role early in the season.

However, the expectations for strong safety Rahim Moore as the only true freshman starter will be higher than all as a key cog of the defense.

The secondary will be a combination of experienced players, such as junior corner Alterraun Verner, with talented underclassmen, such as Moore, who have no collegiate experience.

For coach Rick Neuheisel, this means a reliance on ability to make up for a lack of experience.

“I think we’re getting better on the secondary,” Neuheisel said. “We’re not very deep, the problems are apparent in terms of depth. But I wouldn’t throw any of our guys back. I think they’re all talented guys and I think they’re all getting better.”

A large part of that learning curve has a lot to do with Verner and his ability to become a leader on defense, as well as a lock down defensive back.

“It’s a different feel to be a veteran from the past two years where I was kind of under the older guys,” Verner said.

“It’s basically the same thing now, I try to come out to work and improve and get better, but also help the younger guys, have them ask me questions. I also have to be a general out on the field, so it’s a little different, but I’m ready for the challenge.”

There won’t be much time for freshmen like Moore, Tony Dye and Aaron Hester, none of whom are designated to redshirt, to acquaint themselves to the college game.

For Verner, there’s only one way to get them ready to play.

“Just throw them in the fire,” Verner said. “You can’t really baby them because, you know, this is college football. They’re going to be facing a lot of things, so you just throw them out there and see how they respond. That’s how they’re going to gain experience.”

With Verner, senior cornerback Michael Norris and junior free safety Aaron Ware providing the leadership in the secondary, Moore has taken advantage.

“Alterraun, that dude knows the playbook,” Moore said. “He inspired me to play cornerback because of the way he plays and how smart he plays. He’s not only a good player on the field, but off the field he has exceptional grades. He never says no to you when you ask him for a favor. He’s been a big help in my life.”

Defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker realizes the pressure that’s on Moore to make the transition to the college level quickly, but has faith in his abilities.

“For a young kid I feel sorry for him, but he’s all we’ve got, and he’s good enough to come through,” Walker said. “Athletically he can do it.”

But for Walker, one thing is also clear when it comes to game time.

“I can’t have freshman mistakes,” he said.