Will Levis details Kentucky's impressive running back depth

Kentucky’s success with running back depth may be more important this year than any other season under Mark Stoops. The question mark that is the availability of the SEC’s returning leading rusher in Chris Rodriguez has placed a limit on how high the Wildcats can aim to start the year. For Will Levis, though, he says the amount of talent in the running back room in Lexington is more than capable of getting the job done.

Levis broke down the running back options for the Wildcats after their Fan Day practice on Saturday. He says the skillsets of the other backs provide them a different look. It’s something he thinks is unique from even what Rodriguez can provide for them.

“I think Kavosiey (Smoke) and a couple other dudes like La’Vell (Wright) and JuTahn (McClain) bring another level of speed I think for one. I think they can get that edge and really run by people a little easier than (Chris) can,” said Levis. “If anything, they just bring depth and confidence to the offense. We know that we’re four or five deep at running back. We can throw anybody in and know that they’re gonna get that same gain.”

Rodriguez rushed for 1,378 yards and produced 13 total touchdowns as a junior in 2021. An offseason legal matter that has yet to be resolved with a punishment has plenty expecting Stoops’ team to be without him for some extent of time to start the year. That leaves players like Smoke, Wright and McClain to fill in the gap.

That trio combined for 828 yards from scrimmage and six total touchdowns last season. That doesn’t even include Michael Drennen or grad transfer Ramon Jefferson. Will Levis says that many options, especially with multiple styles, is something he isn’t used to as a quarterback.

“Everyone is different but they can make the same plays that C-Rod can which is really, really cool,” Levis said. “I’ve never been on a team this deep at running back so that’s pretty cool.”

With no decision made on Rodriguez yet, all five may end up having an opportunity early or throughout the season. Add in Rodriguez and you’re looking at six quality options in the UK backfield. The position has been a strength for their program in years past and will have the chance to be that again come the opener against Miami (OH).