'It was just time for a change': Dane Key opens up on decision to leave Kentucky

Dane Key - Mont Dawson, Kentucky Sports Radio

Dane Key will spend his final season in college football wearing a Nebraska jersey and catching passes from former five-star recruit Dylan Raiola. Seeing the former Lexington (Ky.) Frederick Douglass product wear red will be an adjustment for the Big Blue Nation.

The wideout who recorded 126 receptions for 1,870 yards and 14 touchdowns over three years in Lexington spoke with On3’s Pete Nakos and discussed why he ultimately decided to leave the school just down the road. Timing is everything.

“It was just the right time,” Key told On3. “It was just time for a change. I had three different offensive coordinators in three years. I just wanted some consistency. With three different offensive coordinators, I played with three different quarterbacks. It was just time for a change.”

“Kentucky is my home. It’s where I grew up, it’s where my Pops played. So it wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s ultimately what was best for me.”

The offensive coordinator churn in Lexington was also brought up by Vince Marrow in giving a reason why he decided to leave the program. Kentucky’s lack of stability on that side of the football has caused some real issues. The program seems to be paying a tax for that right now.

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Dane Key was one of five scholarship wide receivers to leave the program for the transfer portal this offseason. However, Hardley Gilmore IV did decide to return to Lexington. The Cats had to make another coaching change in this position room after Daikiel Shorts Jr. left for the same position at Nebraska where he has reunited with Key. New position coach L’Damian Washington helped add five scholarship transfers to the room while UK also signed five high school prospects. A complete flip was made at this position.

Kentucky’s is entering yet another rebuild season on offense but this one was highlighted by massive personnel movement as the moving and shaking continues on offense in Lexington. Nearly 800 miles west, Dane Key is entering a potential All-Big Ten season at Nebraska where Dana Holgorsen returns at offensive coordinator after receiving an in-season promotion. The Bluegrass native is excited about his near future at his new college football home.

“Honestly, it’s football and corn,” said Key. “They truly love their football here, and it’s awesome.”