The Big Blue Nation had suffered enough. Mississippi State affably put the basketball Cats out of its misery on Thursday. All eyes are now on Mark Stoops’ team as it embarks on a 15-
session spring practice campaign. There will be no Blue-White Game due to the university’s continuation of COVID-19 vaccinations and testing which is located at Kroger Field. Thus, supposition on the Wildcat’s new offense and quarterback competition will spew over to fall camp. Drama, intrigue, and a speck of gamesmanship will surround Kentucky going into the 2021 season. There have been recent happenings that will influence spring practice. Let’s dive in:
NO SPRING GAME
Football is entertainment. COVID-19 testing and vaccinations at Kroger Field have real-life implications and are necessary in the commonwealth’s battle against the virus. UK made the right call here. A disruption in the university’s role in battling COVID- 19 to play an offseason football game makes no sense. We’ve all been impacted by the virus. Let’s finish strong. I’ll gladly sacrifice a spring game in order for the stands to be filled when Louisiana Monroe rolls into town. It’s uncertain if a filmed version of the scrimmage will be made available to the public. If not, then Missouri will have just one week of Liam Coen’s offensive tape to study. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Gamesmanship.
NEW RUNNING BACKS COACH
By all accounts, Kentucky has found its new RB coach. KSR’s Matt Jones reported that barring a major change, Wisconsin’s John Settle is likely headed to Lexington. Settle was on the Badger’s staff for a combined eleven seasons including the most recent six. The highly respected coach developed unanimous All American Jonathan Taylor who is now starring for the Indianapolis Colts. Settle’s list of backs in the NFL is long and distinguished. It includes James White (Patriots), Dare Ogunbowale (Jaguars), Alec Ingold (Raiders), James Connor( Pittsburgh), and Derek Watt (Pittsburgh).
Any way this hire is dissected, it must be considered as a homerun. Settle’s long tenure at Wisconsin is significant. The Badgers are known for its offensive line and running backs. Landing its RB coach is a powerful statement and implies that Mark Stoops is focused on surrounding Liam Coen with experienced and proven position coaches.
This new marriage will benefit both parties. Settle will inherit Christopher Rodriguez Jr. The Wildcat star will be the next pro that Settle has guided at the collegiate level. UK’s RB room is talented and deep. Lots to be excited about here.
JAGER BURTON IS MAKING A STRONG IMPRESSION
Jager Burton committed to Kentucky on August 30 th , 2020. The High School All American didn’t look back or waiver on his decision. Burton’s steadfastness may have detracted from the deserving hype that surrounds a player of his status. In other words, this dude can ball. Enjoy him while you can.
The only question surrounding the Frederick Douglass product was which position would he play? Projected as a guard, Burton possesses the athletic ability, intelligence, work-ethic, and tenacity to play all five offensive line roles. Burton recently reported that he will indeed play guard. Listed at 275-pounds as a high school senior, the Big Blue Wall’s newest member is already nearing the 300-pound threshold. Jager Burton will play as a true freshman.
KEEP YOUR EYES ON THESE KEY POSITION BATTLES
Outside Linebacker/Defensive End-Georgia Tech transfer Justice Dingle is the most experienced player that is vying to replace Boogie Watson. Dingle’s most recent season was spent as a hand-in-the-dirt defensive end in a 4-3 scheme. He has played as a stand-up outside linebacker so the transition should be smooth. Brad White needs Dingle to be good.
KD McDaniel was Watson’s backup a year ago but only played in five games and totaled 1 tackle. Both Dingle and McDaniel have yet to register a collegiate QB sack. This position competition is vital. An influencer, not just a named starter must surface. A restricted role player will not get it done at this critical position in Kentucky’s 3-4 defense.
Quarterback-Unfortunately, spring practice will leave the BBN asking for more regarding its quarterback competition. Spring time is more exciting for the media and fans when the QB1 spot is up for grabs. Beau Allen and Joey Gatewood will slug it out during the Wildcat’s fifteen practices. But, highly thought of signal caller Will Levis is not on campus. The Penn State transfer was brought to Lexington to compete for the starting job. Therefore, the UK quarterback situation will not be settled until August at the earliest.
Right Tackle-Darian Kinnard was recently named the most valuable returning offensive lineman in all of college football. Rumblings from the Joe Craft Football Training Center is that the All American will kick over from right tackle to left. If this is so, the right tackle position will be open for competition. Naasir Watkins is the most experienced tackle competing for this spot. Watkins has played a high number meaningful snaps. He is recovering from an injury and his status for spring ball has not been confirmed. John Young, Jeremly Flax, Josh Jones, Deondre Buford, and Nick Lewis will get serious looks on the edge.
Middle Linebacker-Jamin Davis’ Draft stock is rising. His early departure to the NFL leaves an opening at the money position in Brad White’s defense. There will be a deep group of defenders competing to fill Davis’ vacated position. A high number of candidates bodes well for quality depth. However, much like at Jack linebacker, a role player will not suffice at this position. The Wildcat’s defense depends on this position being filled by a dynamic playmaker on the inside. Or as I like to call them, A Dude.
Jared Casey was moved from outside linebacker to the middle and is settling into his new role. Casey is a former 4-star prospect. It’s time for him to produce. Marquez Bembry and D’eryk Jackson also played important snaps in 2020. Michigan State transfer Luke Fulton will also factor. While not on campus, Trevin Wallace could be a fit. Much like at quarterback, I don’t foresee the middle linebacker starter to be named until fall camp.
What Does All This Mean?
Thank God spring practice is finally here. The Big Blue Nation needs a reprieve from a nightmarish basketball season that was full of disappointment. I like the fact that there will be a hint of clandestineness from not having a Blue-White Game.
It’s here. Enjoy.
"here" - Google News
March 14, 2021 at 09:00AM
https://ift.tt/2Ot0wtI
Spring Practice Is Here - kentuckysportsradio.com
"here" - Google News
https://ift.tt/2z7PfXP
https://ift.tt/2Yv8ZPx
No comments:
Post a Comment