Josh Paschal 'Highly Questionable' for Citrus Bowl

Josh Paschal is unlikely to play in the Citrus Bowl. On New Year’s Eve Mark Stoops revealed the Kentucky defensive end is “highly questionable” against Iowa.

“He really wants to play, but I don’t feel like I can play him with a clear conscience,” Stoops said.

Paschal re-aggravated a previous injury in the Governor’s Cup. Additionally, his trip to Orlando was delayed by an illness, putting him further behind the 8-ball.

Paschal is Kentucky’s most disruptive defensive player. He leads the team in tackles for loss with 15.5, the second-most in the SEC. He also has 52 tackles and five sacks in 2021.

The first ever three-time team captain in school history, replacing Paschal will not be easy. Tre’vonn Rybka has played limited snaps in relief of Paschal. Kahlil Saunders showed promise in early action, but if the true freshman plays he will burn his redshirt.

Paschal might not be the only player unavailable. Jacquez Jones was spotted wearing a walking boot in Orlando. He shared a reassuring message Thursday night on Twitter, but Stoops indicated there are a few uncertainties as they approach the finish line.

“Our team is in relatively good shape. We’ll see,” Stoops said. “We’re going down to the wire with a few guys as as far as injuries are concerned, but hopefully we’ll be at full strength.”