First Impressions of Kentucky Enrollees: Part II

Mark Stoops signed a quarterback and a punter in the Class of 2018; both positions were of vital need. The following post contains my first impressions of quarterback Terry Wilson and punter Max Duffy as well as abbreviated film analysis from notes taken prior to December’s National Signing Day:

Quarterback Terry Wilson

Overview

Measurables: 6’3, 205
Hometown: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
High School: Del City
Junior College: Garden City Community College
Chose UK over: Florida, Nebraska, Indiana, Ole Miss, many more

Abbreviated Film Analysis

— Astute RPO execution. Familiar with scheme and comfortable in multi-read options from various personnel groups, formations, motions, and field position. Understands defensive intent to counter from countless repetitions and familiarization.

— Good athlete. Shifty, smooth runner but not a burner. Top-end, on-field speed seems faster than reported 40-time.

— Playmaker. Finds ways out of trouble in and out of the pocket. Creator.

— Quick decision maker in pass game but has a tendency to stare-down intended targets. Will need to improve read/scan to throw mechanics. However, no panic in pocket as he can fall back on his ability to create if progression tree results in no openings. High Football IQ.

— Not hesitant to attempt courage throws between the hashes. This indicates quick 1-2 option read off play action and drop-back. Workable touch over LBs and in front of safeties. Accuracy and completion percentage will increase with system and personnel familiarity. Played two years, each with different/new playbooks and teammates.

— Adequate touch in red-zone, back-shoulder-fade throws, and deep-dig routes.

— Capable in vertical passing game. Arm strength-check.

— Can throw off the run, better to right than left which is natural

— Requires more eye discipline

First Impressions from Press Conference

— Exuded leadership and self-assurance. Always mentioned “team,” not “me,” which must be considered as a positive given his short stay on campus. Fan expectation is for Wilson to be named as the starter immediately; that is not reality. He handled what could be a delicate situation (QB competition) in the correct manner and again worked the word “team” in most comments. When asked what his expectations for during his first game, he gave a simple answer: “win the game.” Another spot-on answer you’d expect from a quarterback.

— On purpose or not, Wilson repeatedly proclaimed his love for the University of Kentucky and at one point referenced the university and Lexington as “Heaven”; this will endear him to the BBN. He seemed sincere with those remarks which leads me to believe that after a stint at Oregon, junior college revealed a reigniting of appreciation for the amenities that come with major college football. In other words, Wilson seemed hungry to prove his worth and is appreciative of the opportunity.

— Working to build trust with teammates in non-football activities. Plays basketball with teammates which is a way to prove competitive nature and willingness to lead. I like that. A team that participates in recreational activities together normally has a stronger locker room. Not all the time, but more than not.

— Excellent posture, poise, eye contact, and calculation when answering questions or making statements. QB is a position in which actions during a press conference can translate to on-field standing. Wilson never wavered or appeared nervous. In my opinion, he was cognizant of presenting a positive, confident, yet humble front to the media, teammates, and fan base. He was superb in this area.

— Terry Wilson seemed to have the confidence, personality, intent, and outlook to become the face of a franchise; whether he will he or not will depend on spring practice.

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Punter Max Duffy

Overview

Measurables: 6’0, 181
High School: Kent Street Senior High School
Former Team: Freemantle, AFL
Coached by: Nathan Chapman and John Smith, Pro Kick Australia

Ranked number one punter in the Class of 2018 by ProKicker.com

First Impressions from Press Conference

— BBN, you’re going to love Duffy.

— Personable, eager to learn the game of football and Kentucky culture.

— Oldest player on the team. Mature in remarks and approach in front of the cameras and recorders. Seemed extremely comfortable.

 

Five early enrollees. Five different personalities and backgrounds. Diversity is one of the most beautiful aspects of collegiate athletics. All of the Wildcat rookies passed their first test on Tuesday.

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