Kentucky's Cincinnati Moeller pipeline could continue with Matt Ponatoski

Moeller Crusaders Matt Ponatoski (7) looks to throw in the first half of a second-round Division I OHSAA high school football game against the St. Xavier Bombers, Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at St. Xavier High School s RDI Field in Cincinnati. | © Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

Ohio quickly became a pipeline state for Kentucky football recruiting when Mark Stoops took over the program. With Vince Marrow leading the charge, the Cats consistently hit the pavement in the Buckeye State for players. Some schools became pipelines for the Wildcats. Many are wondering if some of those pipelines will dry up with Marrow now at Louisville.

The Cincinnati (Ohio) Moeller pipeline could deliver a big addition on Sunday.

Matt Ponatoski won Mr. Football as a junior quarterback for Moeller in 2024. The four-star recruit threw for over 4,000 yards and 56 touchdowns as he led the Crusaders to the state championship game. Since the 2024 season ended, Ponatoski has seen his recruitment blow up but the Cats are in position to win this hotly contested battle.

This could be a true game changer for Kentucky football.

Latest episode of 11 Personnel with special guest @RowlandRIVALS discusses the Matt Ponatoski recruitment and where everything currently sits with the program on the trail.

📺https://t.co/3wQhvMSPqP https://t.co/LtK6sqUcs8 pic.twitter.com/uIXTogIYpr
— Adam Luckett (@AdamLuckettKSR) July 3, 2025

Ponatoski could become the latest in the Moeller-to-Lexington pipeline. This is one that has worked out well for both parties.

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Brenden Bates signed with Kentucky in the 2018 class and spent six seasons with the program. The tight end battled injuries throughout his time on campus but was a productive Y tight end on the field. Bates is now hanging around in the NFL having spent last year with the New York Jets practice squad and signing a deal with the Cleveland Browns in December. Carrington Valentine signed with Kentucky in the 2020 cycle. The cornerback became a multi-year starter in Lexington and a seventh-round draft pick. Valentine could have a very big role with the Green Bay Packers in year three. Josh Kattus signed with Kentucky in the 2022 cycle. The tight end is a multi-year starter who is entering his senior season in Lexington.

Moeller alums have succeeded in the Kentucky football program. Both Bates and Valentine have carved out homes in the NFL. Matt Ponatoski could become the next Crusader to join this pipeline and give Kentucky its first recruiting win in Ohio in the 2026 cycle.