ESPN.com's SEC recruiting capsules

UK 2014 commit Dorian Hendrix The good people over at ESPN.com put together SEC spring recruiting capsules for fans of college football's best conference. The worldwide leader believes Kentucky's overall trend is even, citing a lack of a ESPN Top 25 class since the rankings began in 2006. The article does, however, credit the Wildcats for picking up steam under Mark Stoops. Here is what Kentucky's recruiting capsule looks like:

Kentucky Wildcats Who they have: Kentucky's strong close to the 2013 class has led to a fast start to the 2014 class. The Wildcats have five commitments: four-star receiver Thaddeus Snodgrass from Springfield (Ohio) High, running back Mikel Horton from West Chester (Ohio) Lakota West, linebacker Dorian Hendrix from Huber Heights (Ohio) Wayne, tight end Darryl Long from Westerville (Ohio) South and defensive tackle Tymere Dubose from Youngstown (Ohio) Christian. Note that all are from Ohio. First-year head coach Mark Stoops has a strong presence there. Who they want: Quarterback Drew Barker from Hebron (Ky.) Conner is the gem Kentucky most covets. He has said he's close to a decision. Defensive tackle Matt Elam from Elizabethtown (Ky.) John Hardin is a prime target. The 6-foot-6, 350-pounder would provide the Cats a massive presence in the middle of their defense. Spring storyline: The momentum continues. Recruiting at Kentucky is no easy feat. Stoops already has landed five commitments based on a philosophy of rebirth. A new attitude and plans for new facilities have prospects taking a new look at Kentucky. Bold prediction: Kentucky will pick up its quarterback of the future when Barker commits to the Cats.-- Dave Hooker Scouts' overall trend: Even. The Wildcats seem to be picking up steam under new coach Mark Stoops and they closed fast for the 2013 class. Still, they have their work cut out for them. Kentucky dropped off quickly after Rich Brooks resigned in January 2010. The Wildcats have not had a top-25 class since we started ranking classes in 2006. -- Tom Luginbill

In another article on the website, ESPN projects Kentucky to finish last in the SEC East next season with a 20-percent chance of losing the final nine games of the season. That sounds brutal, and may not be too far off. Go Cats, though.