Three Things We Learned from Spring Practice

Kentucky’s spring session is complete. The Cats will now focus on finishing the semester strong academically and transition into its summer program which includes hosting official visitors. From all accounts, UK enjoyed a positive spring practice.  A new offense was installed which brought on new confidence in its quarterbacks and pass catchers. Senior defensive players are reported to be taking the next step into becoming elite disruptors. Linebacker depth is not danger-thin yet, but there is growing concern. There’s lot to unpack from the Wildcat’s 15 practices. Here are three things that jumped out to me:

Pass Offense Development

The addition of Wan’Dale Robinson, the retention of Josh Ali and Improvements at receiver to go along with continued influence from the TE position have created tremendous excitement around the Wildcat’s passing attack. Furthermore, Chris Rodriguez Jr. and the running backs are going to be more frequently asked to be pass catchers out of the backfield. All of this sounds good, but it will take an accurate quarterback to make it all go. Joey Gatewood has impressed during spring practice. Beau Allen had moments in which he played like a starting QB in the SEC. However, the QB1 position is long from being decided. Penn State transfer Will Levis is given ample opportunity to earn the job. Whichever signal caller first trots onto Kroger Field against Louisiana Monroe will benefit from operating a quarterback friendly offense.

Let’s face it, UK had to find balance. Its running game has been consistently rated near the top of the SEC, but yards through the air have been challenging and at times, clumsy to watch. Enter new offensive coordinator Liam Coen. There is hope that UK can increase on the SEC’s last rated passing offense. Mark Stoops was pleased with Gatewood and Allen.   

“Both guys that are in competition for the starting job, they’ve alternated days and both have done some really good things. You can see the confidence in both guys growing. They’ve really done a nice job. We’ve gotten the ball down the field better than we have in some time. That’s been good to see.”

Kentucky averaged a mere 5.5-yards per pass attempt a year ago which was preceded by a 5.8 average in 2019. There were very few yards after catch and vertical receptions were minimal. This must improve. This has to improve. Mark Stoops understands his offense must be more balanced and the significance of having a playmaker at quarterback.

“Both of them done some really good things. You can see the confidence. Joey’s done a really nice job off the play actions and waggles hitting some deep balls. We’ve gotten the ball downfield field.”

The Big Blue Nation eagerly awaits its first glimpse at UK’s new offense but it will have to wait until the Louisiana Monroe game to see Coen’s system in action. There is a great deal of excitement and anticipation surrounding the passing game. Veterans such as TE Justin Rigg and WR Josh Ali frequently spoke of having fun in practice.

 

Josh Paschal

Mark Stoops has gushed over senior defensive end Josh Paschal during spring practice. The unquestioned team leader has been a mainstay on the Wildcat defense for many seasons. His last year may be his most impactful on the field. When asked which defensive player has stood out during spring practice, Mark Stoops said, “I don’t think it’s any surprise that Josh Paschal is showing up.  I feel like he’s a guy that’s taking it to another level where you see a very good player turn into a game wrecker at times. There’s times in practice or in a scrimmage where he can take over and be very disruptive, so it’s good to see him growing that way.”

First, this doesn’t surprise me. Second, I’m happy for Josh. He’s maintained a positive outlook through extremely difficult times. His response to challenges has been to simply put his head down and go to work. In other words, be the standard. The Kentucky defensive line is talented and deep. But, it’s also filled with youth. That position room requires a leader. It’s not surprising that Josh Paschal is leading by example and enforcing program standards on the practice field.

Losing nose tackle Quinton Bohanna and defensive tackles Phil Hoskins and Kordell Looney will be noticeable. Kentucky led the SEC in pass defense a year ago but only recorded 15 QB sacks. That number must increase. The organic three defensive linemen in UK’s 3-4 scheme will have to increase havoc in opposing backfields. Paschal’s influence from the Edge will be vital for Anwar Stewart’s defensive line. For what it’s worth, fellow defensive end Sam Anaele’s development has been impressive and a reflection of Paschal’s tutelage.

 

Linebacker Depth

Kentucky suffered a major loss after Mark Stoops announced that projected starter D’Eryk Jackson would likely be out for the season following an injury. Michigan State transfer linebacker Luke Fulton and former 4-star recruit Jared Casey will compete to fill the void left by Jackson. It’s time for Casey to take that next step and develop into a starter. The ultra-talented Trevin Wallace will be given an opportunity to contribute as a true freshman. Exactly where and how much are the only questions. Inside linebacker De’Andre Square will be the defense’s quarterback. Square is a vocal leader that has displayed the necessary traits to become the next UK linebacker to develop into a pro. It can’t be overstated just how important Square is for the 2021 defense.

Mike is not the only linebacker position that is under the microscope. Fast rising outside backer JJ Weaver is still recovering from surgery which leaves senior Jordan Wright as Brad White’s lone veteran on the edge. Wright is coming off a season that saw his havoc stats significantly influence the defense’s top-four SEC finish. He recorded 45 tackles to go along with 3.5 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries, 5.5 tackles for loss, 4 pass breakups, 1 interception, and 3 forced fumbles in 2020. However, both Stoops and White have harped on Wright becoming more consistent. Wright possesses the tools to be that go-to pass rusher for the Cats which could result in All SEC honors. Wright and UK needs 2021 to be his best year as a Wildcat.

Mike, Sam, Will, and Jack are all names that define specific linebacker roles. However, expect Brad White to put his best four linebackers on the field that will give the Cats a chance to win regardless of position. He will likely be creative in ‘medium’ packages during certain passing situations. Kentucky’s linebackers could see personnel situationally rotating to meet specific down and distance conditions.

 

What Does All This Mean?

It’s no secret that UK has been an elite rushing offense that has struggled mightily to throw the football. Think about this for a minute. Kentucky has won 13 out of last 24 games with nearly zero threat of completing a forward pass. During that 24 game stretch, the vast majority of opposing defenses consistently loaded the box with 8 or 9 defenders in order to slow the run.  UK still managed to win games and lead the league in rushing two years ago which was followed by a third place finish in 2020. While impressive, those numbers also indicate a desperate need for balance. I expect Liam Coen’s influence to alter UK’s offensive personality. However, don’t expect the Wildcats to go completely away from its roots of being a physical run team.

Josh Paschal is a special human being. His influence off the field is as highly regarded as any player in Kentucky history. It’s Josh’s time to flourish on the field. A strong finish to his Kentucky career could boost his Draft stock. More importantly, teams are better when their best players are captains. The Cats need Paschal to lead that young group of defensive linemen.

Kentucky isn’t quite to the point of being danger-thin at linebacker, but it’s getting close. Stoops could possibly exercise the transfer portal to bring in a seasoned backer. But don’t forget, Trevin Wallace will soon be on campus. Wallace is a game-changer but it may take time for him to adjust to a specific position and the college game. Michigan State transfer Luke Fulton and Jared Casey are also answers at Mike after losing Jackson for the season.

Kentucky Sports Radio will have you covered for the NFL Draft and UK’s continued prowess on the recruiting trail. Stay with us during the offseason.