Rose Bowl Hall of Fame
1978 Rose Bowl Game
1997 Inductee
The Rose Bowl Stadium soaks up the California sun every New Year’s Day, but in 1978 it was the “Moon” that kept the heat on the Michigan Wolverines. Specifically, Washington quarterback Warren Moon kept the Wolverines’ defense on its heels through three quarters as the Huskies built a 24–0 lead.
Moon completed 12 timely passes in 23 attempts for 188 yards and a touchdown strike to speedy receiver Spider Gaines. Moon’s footwork turned out to be as lethal as his arm. He scored two touchdowns on the ground, seemingly eclipsing any hope of a Michigan victory.
Fans saw a feverish comeback attempt by the Wolverines come up a touchdown short. The Huskies won 27–20, and Moon earned Player of the Game honors. Moon went on to have a record-setting career in the Canadian and National Football Leagues, earning a place in the Hall of Fame for both leagues. Moon also had his number retired by the Tennessee Titans after playing for the franchise when they were the Houston Oilers for the first 10 years of his 17-year NFL career.
