Kentucky Kernel: September 2, 2021

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Thursday, September 2, 2021

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NEW YEAR, NEW POTENTIAL

Thursday, September 2, 2021

‘It means a lot.’

Students and athletes look forward to more traditional football experience

By Jaron Centers and Kennedy Whitby sports@kykernel.com

As Kroger Field plans to operate at full capacity this season, there is excitement in the air on campus. Fans across the state are ecstatic at the opportunity to fill the stands once again, as Big Blue Nation patiently awaits the return of a somewhat normal college football season.

Unlike last season, where masks were mandatory for all fans, masks are not required unless individuals are unvaccinated or are commuting through any indoor area of Kroger Field.

Events are also making a comeback for the 2021 season. The Chevy Catwalk, where fans can gather to cheer on the Wildcats as they make their walk to Kroger Field, will be returning. Tailgating and cheerleaders will also return to the Caturday experience, as UK anticipates having the full experience of college football Saturdays in Lexington.

Kentucky students who will be attending the games this fall were overjoyed to hear the news.

“I think it’s great,” freshman Zach Brangers said. “Es-

pecially as someone who’s been a fan of Kentucky football my whole life, it’s just great to see an opportunity to get people to be passionate again about the Wildcats.”

While Brangers has attended games before, this season will be his first experience in the stands as a student. “It’s an unreal feeling that you can’t replicate,” he said. “It’s a different feeling in college.”

Freshman Cameron McAlphin shared a similar reaction.

“I was ecstatic,” McAlphin said. “It means a lot. Kroger Field used to be the place that everybody would go to for the games and have fun on a Saturday. Now we get that back.”

While McAlphin says he was glad to hear the news, he is concerned that protocols will revert to those of the 2020 season. “Of course I’m worried about it. Our cases keep going up, and with classes started, it could create another surge,” he said. “But I’m hopeful that our president will keep everything the same or better.”

As for the players competing on the field, they were just as excited to hear the news.

“It means everything to me, man. I feel like the fans bring us more energy and make us go harder, especially

on third down,” senior defensive tackle Marquan McCall said. “The fact that we got full capacity again is just amazing to me.”

As for defensive back Davonte Robinson, the sound of cheering fans in the stands is what he’s looking forward to having again.

“You know last year, third down, we missed that – the crowd yelling behind us,” Robinson said.

“It really helps us out a lot too, when the quarterbacks are trying to hear their coach change up plays and stuff like that, so, it does mean a lot.”

While the team missed the roar of BBN last year, Robinson felt he took a particular factor for granted last season: seeing familiar faces.

“Because I’m from here, I know a lot of people who didn’t come just because it was COVID,” he said. “So, seeing a lot of people just around the city that I know, I missed seeing everybody’s face.”

With no limitations on capacity for the season, there will be plenty of faces to see for both the fans and the players in 2021, as football in the Bluegrass inches closer to what it was just a couple of years ago.

How to score tickets this football season

By Trinity Bratchett sports@kykernel.com

With the return to a more normal football season, Kentucky fans will soon be filling the seats of Kroger Field.

Here’s how to purchase single-game tickets and access season passes for the upcoming games.

First, download the UK Athletics App. It is available in the App Store and the Google Play Store. The app has the schedule for all 22 of UK’s sports teams, and it also provides all the ticket information fans need. Kentucky Athletics announced that they will utilize mobile ticketing for all home football games this season for both students and the public.

To access student tickets, open the app and select the “Tickets’’ tab that is located at the bottom right corner of the screen. Select the option “Claim Football Passes/ Buy Single Game Tickets” under the Student Tickets section. This option will open Ticketmaster.com. Students can sign in using the email address that is linked to their myUK Athletics Student Account. At the top left

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corner, there will be a drop-down menu that says “Claim/ buy tickets.” Select “Claim FB Passes/Buy Single Game Tickets” to claim season passes or to buy single-game tickets.

To purchase non-student tickets, open the app and select the “Tickets” tab as well. Click the “Buy Tickets” option under the Season Tickets and Single Game Tickets section. From there, the app directs to a “Search

by Sport” prompt, followed by all of the UK Athletics sports. Football will be the first option, providing a series of options to choose from, including “Season Tickets” and “Buy Single-Game Tickets.” That choice will then direct to Ticketmaster or a subsection of the UK tickets information page, where fans can purchase their desired tickets.

From here, there will be a filler option and three different promo codes. There, season ticket holders can enter the promo code “UKCLAIM” to claim their ticket. For non-season ticket holders who wish to purchase a single-game ticket, students must use the code “UKBUY”

and all other fans must use the code “UKGUEST.” Once satisfied with the order, check out to purchase the tickets.

After submitting the order, customers should receive an email confirmation. Digital ticket barcodes will be available approximately 48 hours prior to the game’s kickoff time. Ticket holders are able to view these barcodes and save them in their phone’s wallet for easy access. Barcodes can be found in the UK Athletics app under “View/Manage My Tickets (Public)” or “View/ Manage My Student Tickets.”

The priority claim period for season pass holders begins the Monday prior to game week at 10 a.m. Student single-game tickets go on sale the Tuesday prior to game week at 10 a.m. Student guest tickets go on sale the Wednesday prior to game week at 10 a.m. All non-student tickets for all home games are currently available for purchase.

The UK Ticket office can be contacted via email (studenttickets@uky.edu) or via phone (800) 928-2287.

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Humans of UK:

kentuckykernel

Alli Stumler keeps the Cats on top

By Jaron Centers sports@kykernel.com

This is Humans of UK, inspired by the Humans of New York Instagram series by photographer and author Brandon Stanton. This series dives into the individuals of UK as well as their stories, strifes and passions.

Senior Alli Stumler is known by many names: National Champion, two-time All-American and three-time SEC Champion, to name a few. However, off the court, Stumler is a servant, outdoorsman and someone who is passionate about family.

A native of Floyds Knobs, Indiana, one would think that a girl from the Hoosier state would follow a basketball path. However, Alli chose volleyball.

Since high school, Stumler has drawn national attention for her skills on the court, named an Under Armour All-American, fourtime Indiana All-State and an Indiana State Champion.

While volleyball takes up most of her time, her passions in life reach far beyond the game.

“I think giving back is number one,” Stumler said.

“That’s something I really try to make a priority, more so now than ever before.”

STAFF FILE PHOTO Kentucky sophomore Alli Stumler bumps the ball during the second round game of the DI NCAA Volleyball Tournament against Michigan on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 3-0.

In addition to giving back to her community, Stumler said she also enjoys hiking, going to the lake and “just enjoying nature.”

“I think it’s a good way for me to release whatever is on my mind and just enjoy

what I have,” she said.

Her skills in volleyball won her several accolades during her junior year.

Leading the Cats with eight double-doubles as well as averaging 4.28 kills per set, Stumler was named to

multiple prestigious lists in the 2020 season, including AVCA All-America, All-SEC, NCAA All-Tournament Team and AVCA First Team All-Region.

Since being crowned a national champion in April, Stumler talked about how she was able to spend time with her family and friends during the offseason, something she had to be heedful of during the team’s run to the title.

“We had to be cognizant of who we were around, where they had been, because we wanted to put ourselves in the best position possible to win a national championship, so we couldn’t enjoy those things,” Stumler said. “In the two months we had off this summer, I was just with family, enjoying those times.”

With her senior campaign underway, it’s no surprise that Stumler is already off to a great start. Last weekend, she was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Dayton Invitational, leading the Cats with 3.67 kills per set.

Stumler will be a key piece to defending a national title. While the team faces a daunting task ahead, Stumler believes the Cats have the “necessary pieces” to stay at the top.

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KENTUCKY KERNEL OFFICES 340 McVey Hall University of Kentucky Lexington, KY 40506

On the cover:

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky players pose for a photo during the UK football media day on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

fall 2021 | 3

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Wildcats and Warhawks:

Kentucky’s football season begins

By Hunter Shelton sports@kykernel.com

It’s almost football time in the Bluegrass.

Year nine of the Mark Stoops era is set to kick off on Sept. 4 at Kroger Field, as the Wildcats host the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks.

Kentucky is 5-3 in week one matchups under Stoops, as well as 6-2 in home openers. After dropping the first two games of the 2020 all-SEC schedule at Auburn and at home against Ole Miss, the Cats will look to get off on the right foot in 2021 against UL Monroe.

But who are the Warhawks?

Out of the Sun Belt conference, UL Monroe is coming off a winless 2020 campaign. In their 10 games, they lost by an average of 25.7 points per game.

Neither offense nor defense was a strong suit for the Warhawks last season.

Finishing 119 out of 127 teams in the FBS in total offense and 113 in total defense, Monroe averaged just 305.7 yards per game while allowing 464.6.

Following the disappointing season, Monroe fired head coach Matt Viator, who compiled a 19-39 record during his tenure of five seasons.

Having just one winning season since 1980, UL Monroe decided to bring in a new head coach whose

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name is part of football royalty.

Terry Bowden begins his fifth NCAA head coaching gig with the Warhawks, having a record of 156-1012 in 22 seasons as a skipper.

Known for his time at Auburn during which he led the Tigers to two SEC West division titles, Bowden isn’t new to coaching a mid-major. He took the Zips to one MAC Championship game in 2017 during his seven seasons at Akron.

Son of the late legendary Bobby Bowden, who won over 300 games with Florida State, and brother to former longtime Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden, Terry comes from a football family that is used to winning.

Bowden isn’t the only recognizable new face in town, however. Rich Rodriguez was hired as the new offensive coordinator in January, bringing his coveted spread option offense to Monroe. Rodriguez brings along 163 victories and 16 years of experience as an NCAA head coach at West Virginia, Michigan and, most recently, Arizona.

While the coaching staff is prominent, the depth chart is relatively unknown.

With multiple transfers coming in and out of the portal, the Warhawks team was still coming together as training camp began.

Coach Bowden is still yet to announce starters, keeping his team under wraps as game one against Kentucky

AP PHOTO/MICHAEL CLUBB Kentucky quarterback Will Levis (7) looks for an open receiver during an open practice in Lexington, Kentucky, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021.

approaches.

What is known is that Josh Johnson and Josh Pederson, the team’s leading rusher and receiver from a year ago, are gone. The defensive line lacks depth, and no position features a bulk of options.

Defensive coordinator Zac Alley does return both of his leading tacklers from a year ago, in linebacker Traveion Webster and safety Austin Hawley. On the offensive side of the ball, wide receivers Perry Car-

ter and Jahquan Bloomfield will be featured in the newlook attack, alongside four of the five returning offensive linemen who started a year ago.

Who will be under center against Kentucky on Sept. 4 is still up in the air.

After opting out of the end of the 2020 season and later announcing he was entering the transfer portal, sophomore Colby Suits decided to return to Monroe after throwing eight touchdowns and seven interceptions in

eight games a year ago.

Challenging Suits for the starting job is Arizona transfer and son of ULM’s new offensive coordinator, Rhett Rodriguez. Playing in 11 games over his time in Tucson under his father, Rodriguez accounted for four touchdowns and four interceptions.

Time will tell whether Bowden and Rodriguez will be able to quickly turn around a program that has sat near the bottom of the Sun Belt since it joined

the conference in 2001.

Kentucky poses a tough first challenge for the Warhawks, as they have the firepower to out-run, pass, tackle and play ULM. Kentucky won the last meeting between the two, drumming ULM 48-14 in Lexington. UK leads the all-time series 4-1.

Kickoff between the Wildcats and Warhawks is set for noon on Sept. 4 at Kroger Field, and the game can be seen on SEC Network.

Behind the face mask:

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Wan’Dale Robinson

By Scott Clarke sports@kykernel.com

There are a lot of words to describe junior wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. He’s lightning-quick on the field.

He’s explosive; any time he’s got the ball in his hands, he’s a threat to score. He’s versatile, can return punts and kicks and line up at wide receiver or running back. Above all else, though, he is a Kentuckian.

Robinson, a Frankfort native, grew up about 40 minutes from the University of Kentucky’s campus. He attended Western Hills High School and became one of the best high school football players the state has ever seen, finishing second all-time in state history in points scored with 781. He was also named Mr. Kentucky Football his senior year and an All-American.

He racked up many college offers in high school, originally committing to Kentucky in November 2018. However, about a month later, he decommitted and decided to play for Scott Frost and the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

He attracted attention his freshman year with 340 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns as well as 40 receptions, 453 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns. He instantly showed that with his ground game as well as his receiving, his versatility was going to be a problem for opposing defenses. He was a finalist for the 2019 Paul Hornung Award, which is given out to college football’s most versatile player and was ultimately won by UK’s Lynn Bowden, Jr. Going into his sophomore season, he was looking to improve on his freshman year, helping propel Nebraska back into the college football spotlight. Off the field, however, trouble arose.

Robinson’s mother, Victoria Davis, was hospitalized toward the end of 2020 after contracting COVID-19. Being almost 780 miles away from home was hard on Robinson while his mother was battling the virus along with her multiple sclerosis. He knew he had to be closer to her, and on Jan. 11, 2021, he announced he would be entering the transfer portal.

“Anyone who knows me knows she’s the biggest reason I play the game of football. Being away from my mother and not seeing her during the season hurt me,” he said to the Lincoln Journal Star. “I intend to find a place closer to my mother that will still allow me to achieve my dreams and goals.”

After he entered the transfer portal, it was highly rumored he would be a Wildcat, and on Jan. 15, 2021, that rumor was confirmed.

On Twitter, he posted a photo of him in a Kentucky football uniform with the words “Homestate Hero” across

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Former Kentucky football player Kash Daniel (left) and wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (right) high five each other during the UK football Fan Day open practice on Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

it. His arrival may have come two years later than what Big Blue Nation and recruiting coordinator and tight ends coach Vince Marrow would have wanted, but finally, Robinson was home.

“Wan’Dale is a very professional young man,” Marrow said. “A lot of guys with his type of talent you would think would have a chip on their shoulder or be arrogant.

He broke my heart two years ago [when he committed to Nebraska] but he came back and I know the whole state is excited that he’s back too.”

Marrow would go on to say that when Robinson first arrived at training camp this spring, he wanted to show his teammates that nothing was given to him from the coaching staff and that he earned his spot, which earned him the respect from the guys in the locker room.

Robinson isn’t the only newcomer that has high expectations here in Lexington. Liam Coen left his position as assistant quarterbacks coach with the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams to become the new offensive coordinator at UK. It’s no secret Coen wants to spread the ball out more with a new passing attack, something that Robinson has already

thrived in during practices.

“I’ve really been able to move around a lot in different spots in the offense, from being in the slot or on the outside, just a lot of different formations,” Robinson said. “I line up in a lot of different places and run a lot of different routes and [am] able to do a lot of different things to help our offense be more balanced.”

Robinson’s teammates also see the impact he’s made on the field, including senior tight end Justin Rigg.

“He is a really big game changer because you see those smaller receivers,” Rigg said. “They’re fast and quick and do about anything on the field. You put them anywhere and they can do it and I think as a defense, it’s hard to prepare for that.”

So far, the move back home for Robinson has worked out on the football side of things. However, being closer to his family has been the biggest benefit for him.

“It’s been amazing being back home. I have a little sister that’s one-and-a-half years old, so just being able to see my family and have them come up here and talk to them and watch me play has been a blessing,” he said.

fall 2021 | 5

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Changes coming to Kentucky’s offense

By Hunter Shelton sports@kykernel.com

Mark Stoops has changed almost everything about Kentucky football since his arrival in 2013.

From the program’s culture to the onfield product, UK is no longer a SEC bottom-dweller searching for multiple conference victories; the team has established itself as a legitimate SEC East contender.

At the forefront of Kentucky’s rise is the defense. Finishing in the top half of team total defense in the SEC every year since 2018, defensive coordinator Brad White has propelled UK’s standard in many ways.

The offensive side of the ball has left a bit more to be desired. Kentucky has finished no better than eighth in SEC team total offense since the arrival of coach Stoops. Whether it be the playbook, the lack of a passing game or sheer lack of talent, the Wildcats have not been able to put up points in bulk when needed.

This offseason, some changes for which many fans have yearned finally came to fruition. Kentucky parted ways with offensive coordinator Eddie Gran and co-offensive coordinator Darin Hinshaw. Gran created a powerful rushing attack during his tenure from 2016 to 2020, but he failed to find a way to consistently march the Wildcats down the field on a weekly basis.

Now, Mark Stoops has a new man at the helm of the offense, someone with experience and success at the professional level that could turn Kentucky into a powerhouse on both sides of the football.

Liam Coen comes to the Bluegrass after spending the 2020 season as the Los Angeles Rams assistant quarterbacks coach.

Coen brings a spread style of offense that is going to seem brand new to Big Blue Nation in 2021.

“I am very impressed with Liam’s depth of knowledge and detail of coaching that he has obtained as an NFL and college coach,” Stoops said. “He will bring an exciting style of football, attacking all areas of the field, a style that will be exciting for players to play and for fans to watch.”

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AP PHOTO/MICHAEL CLUBB Kentucky wide receiver Isaiah Epps (81) catches a pass guarded by Kentucky defensive back Cedrick Dort Jr. (3) during an open practice in Lexington, Kentucky, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021.

The addition of Coen has Kentucky poised to take their offense to the next level. Some key returning players, alongside some incoming transfers and freshmen, provide Coen with plenty of new and shiny talent that he can use to build his playbook just the way he likes it.

But who will be at the top of Kentucky’s offense in 2021?

A high-profile quarterback battle finished towards the end of fall camp, with junior Penn State transfer Will Levis coming out on top over junior Auburn transfer Joey Gatewood and sophomore Beau Allen.

Coen credited Levis’ work ethic and “the way he came in and ran the show” as reasons why he won the starting job.

“Obviously you can see some of the arm strength talent and some of the things he can do throwing the football,” Coen said.

“I think right now he gives us the best chance to win.”

Levis spent three seasons with Penn State before transferring to UK. He played in 15 games for the Nittany Lions, racking up just 644 passing yards and hurling three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Levis brings the dual-threat option to

the table for Coen, but fans should not expect the Madison, Connecticut, native to roll-out at will. Coen will provide more opportunities for the Cats to take the top off of the defense and hurl a few deep balls.

Following the announcement of Levis winning the quarterback battle, Coach Stoops announced that Gatewood would be leaving Kentucky, entering his name into the transfer portal and solidifying Allen as the second string.

With Levis under center, BBN will see the most arm talent a UK quarterback has See OFFENSIVE on page 7

Thursday, September 2, 2021

OFFENSIVE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

possessed during Stoops’ tenure. But who will be the receivers collecting passes from the junior?

Josh Ali returns for his senior season after hauling in 54 catches for 473 yards a season ago. Nebraska transfer and Kentucky native Wan’Dale Robinson will be sure to provide a boon to the Kentucky offense. The junior amassed 1,725 all-purpose yards in his two seasons with the Cornhuskers.

Outside of Ali and Robinson, there are no shoe-ins for production. Senior Isaiah Epps and redshirt sophomore Tae Tae Crumes will look to pick up receptions alongside redshirt junior Rahsaan Lewis, son of NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis.

Coach Coen knows that depth at the wide receiver spot may be an issue, but he believes in the talent of his younger players at the position.

“Obviously, the more depth we can add to that position the better,” Coen said. “But I do feel good about some of the young guys, they had a solid training camp so far, we just got to get them a little more work with the older guys.”

At the tight-end position, the Wildcats will start the season without Keaton Upshaw, as he suffered a “significant” injury before fall camp began, and there is currently no timetable for his return. Starting

in his place will be redshirt senior Justin Rigg, returning for his sixth year by taking advantage of the NCAA’s ruling to grant an extra year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Rigg averaged 12.1 yards-per-catch in 2020.

While depth may be something to worry about at the receiver spot for the Wildcats, the running back room remains as deep as usual.

Chris Rodriguez Jr. is back after a breakout 2020 season in which he accumulated 785 yards and 11 touchdowns. The junior returns with a laundry list of preseason accolades, highlighted by being named to the Doak Walker Award watch list, recognizing the country’s best running backs, as well as the Maxwell Award watch list, recognizing the best players in college football.

“It’s my job and our job as an offensive staff to find different ways for (Rodriguez) to touch the football, as opposed to turning around and giving him the ball,” Coen said.

Right behind Rodriguez is junior Kavosiey Smoke. Smoke played in just seven of Kentucky’s 11 games in 2020, tallying 229 yards on 47 carries. In his redshirt freshman season, Smoke averaged 6.1 yards-per-attempt and will look to regain that form in his fourth season suiting up for UK. Freshman running back La’Vell Wright and sophomore Michael Drennen II will

AP PHOTO/MICHAEL CLUBB Kentucky guard Luke Fortner (79) tries to get by Kentucky center Quintin Wilson (60) during an open practice in Lexington, Kentucky, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021.

AP PHOTO/MICHAEL CLUBB Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops watches his players warm up during an open practice in Lexington, Kentucky, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021.

likely see snaps out of the backfield as well, in a rushing and receiving role.

The UK offense features some superstar caliber athletes that can take the team to a new level, but the stars will only shine as bright as the offensive line lets them.

Graded by Pro Football Focus as college football’s top run-blocking tackle for the 2021 season, Darian Kinnard leads a talented group of linemen for new offensive line coach Eric Wolford.

Kinnard’s counterpart at left tackle, Dare Rosenthal, comes to the Wildcats after transferring from LSU. Rosenthal started eight games at the position for the Tigers over the past two seasons. “[Dare’s] got an athletic skill set. In summer training, the latter part of July, we had him over 20 miles per hour, so he’s a guy who can run. He’s got length obviously and he’s gotten a lot of reps there,” Wolford said.

Staffing the guard positions for the Wildcats are Kenneth Horsey and Eli Cox. Horsey started in all eight games he played in last season, earning the 2020 Mayo Clinic Comeback Player of the Year award after returning from open-heart surgery in 2018. Cox, a Kentucky native who backed up Horsey last season, moved over to the right guard position in 2021.

Returning for a final year in Lexington, Luke Fortner moved over from right guard to man the center position, taking over for former Kentucky mainstay Drake Jackson.

Fortner was graded out at 82.9 percent with 26 knockdowns and 146 blocks at the point of attack in the 2020 season, suiting himself up nicely for the center position.

Mark Stoops and Liam Coen are equipped with multiple weapons for the upcoming 2021 campaign. If the defense remains sturdy, the Wildcats may finally be poised to make the next step needed to reach for the SEC crown.

“I am very impressed with

Liam’s depth of knowledge and detail of coaching that he has obtained as an NFL and college coach. He will bring an exciting style of football, attacking all areas of the field, a style that will be exciting for players to play and for fans to

”

watch.

-Mark Stoops fall 2021 | 7

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Who is Kentucky playing this season?

By Barkley Truax sports@kykernel.com

STAFF FILE PHOTO A military plane flies over the stadium for Heroes’ Day before the game against Eastern Michigan on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 38-17.

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Thursday, September 2, 2021

Louisiana Monroe

Missouri

Chattanooga

South Carolina

Florida

LSU

When: Saturday, Sept. 4 at noon

When: Saturday, Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. ET

When: Saturday, Sept. 18 at noon

When: Saturday, Sept. 25 (time TBA)

When: Saturday, Oct. 2 (time TBA)

When: Saturday, Oct. 9 (time TBA)

Location: Kroger Field

Location: Kroger Field

Location: Kroger Field

Location: Kroger Field

Location: Kroger Field

Series: 4-1 (ULM last victory in 1994)

Series: 4-7

Series: 0-0

Location: Williams-Brice Stadium

Series: 18-53

Series: 16-40-1

Last Meeting: Oct. 24, 2020. (Mizzou won 20-10)

Last Meeting: N/A

Last Meeting: Nov. 28, 2020 (UF won 34-10)

Last Meeting: Oct. 11, 2014 (LSU won 41-3)

2020 Record: 8-2

2020 Record: 5-5

Key Player: Redshirt junior linebacker Ventrell Miller: 88 total tackles (52 solo), 7.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in 2020.

Key Player: Sophomore wide receiver Kayshon Boutte: 16.3 yards per reception, 735 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 2020.

Last Meeting: Oct. 11, 2014. (UK won 48-14) 2020 Record: 0-10 Key Player: Fifth year running back Josh Johnson: 3.6 yards per carry, 353 yards and four touchdowns in 2020.

Georgia

2020 Record: 5-5 Key Player: Junior running back Tyler Badie: five yards per carry, 261 yards and four touchdowns in 2020.

Mississippi State

2020 Record: 3-2 Key Player: Sophomore linebacker Jay Person: 19 total tackles, seven tackles for loss and three sacks in 2020.

Tennessee

Series: 13-18-1 Last Meeting: Dec. 5, 2020 (UK won 41-18) 2020 Record: 2-8 Key Player: Junior running back Kevin Harris: 6.2 yards per carry, 1,138 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2020.

Vanderbilt

New Mexico State

Louisville

When: Saturday, Oct. 16 (time TBA)

When: Saturday, Oct. 30 (time TBA)

When: Saturday, Nov. 6 (time TBA)

When: Saturday, Nov. 13 (time TBA)

When: Saturday, Nov. 20 (time TBA)

When: Saturday, Nov. 27 (time TBA)

Location: Sanford Stadium

Location: Davis Wade Stadium

Location: Kroger Field

Location: Vanderbilt Stadium

Location: Kroger Field

Location: Cardinal Stadium

Series: 26-81-9

Series: 47-42-4

Series: 1-0

Series: 17-15

Last Meeting: Oct. 17, 2020 (UK won 34-7)

Last Meeting: Nov. 14, 2020 (UK won 38-35)

Last Meeting: Sept. 17, 2016 (UK won 62-42)

Last Meeting: Nov. 30, 2020 (UK won 45-13)

2020 Record: 3-7

2020 Record: 0-9

2020 Record: 1-1

2020 Record: 3-7

Key Player: Sophomore quarterback Harrison Bailey: five-star recruit coming out of high school, 578 passing yards and four touchdowns in 2020.

Key Player: Sophomore quarterback Ken Seals: 1,928 passing yards, 214.2 passing yards per game and 12 touchdowns in 2020.

Key Player: Redshirt sophomore running back Juwaun Price: 5.9 yards per carry, 229 rushing yards on 33 attempts and one touchdown in two games last season.

Key Player: Senior quarterback Malik Cunningham: 3,226 all-purpose yards (609 rushing, 2,617 passing), 293.3 total yards per game, 27 total touchdowns (seven rushing, 20 passing) in 2020.

Series: 12-60-2 Last Meeting: Oct. 31, 2020 (UGA won 14-3) 2020 Record: 7-2 Key Player: Junior quarterback JT Daniels: 1,231 passing yards in four games, 10 touchdowns and 290 passing yards per game in 2020; on multiple preseason Heisman Watch Lists.

Series: 24-24 Last Meeting: Oct. 10, 2020 (UK won 24-2) 2020 Record: 3-7 Key Player: Sophomore cornerback Emmanuel Forbes: 44 total tackles (24 solo), 11 pass deflections, five interceptions and three touchdowns in 2020.

fall 2021 | 9

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Ask the editors:

What to look for from Kentucky this football season

By Barkley Truax and Hunter Shelton sports@kykernel.com

As SEC schools look forward to a somewhat “traditional” semester, stadiums around the southeast will soon be filling back up with cheering fans, and football will hopefully assume a more normal form. According to the Kernel’s sports editor Hunter Shelton and assistant sports editor Barkley Truax, here’s what to watch for from Kentucky this football season.

What will UK’s 2021 record be?

Hunter: Kentucky has every chance to find themselves at 4-0 to begin the season.

Two non-conference matchups against Louisiana Monroe and Chattanooga bookend a tough week-two test in Missouri, a team that some have pegged as a dark horse to compete with the top of the conference. If they can surpass the Tigers and defeat a lackluster South Carolina team in Columbia, the Cats will return to Lexington to face a gauntlet.

Back-to-back matchups against Florida and LSU will truly test Mark Stoops’ crew as they then travel to Athens to face Georgia, followed by a date with Mississippi State in Starkville. Kentucky needs to win one of these four games and consider anything extra as a bonus.

If the Cats make it out of that stretch alive, they’ll be rewarded with an easier end to the season. After hosting Tennessee, the Cats should win their final three games of the season against Vanderbilt, New Mexico State and a trip across Kentucky to take on Louisville in what’s been a one-sided rivalry as of late.

Nine wins could be in the cards for the Cats, but 7-5 should be a more realistic outcome.

Barkley: On a positive note, Kentucky will likely go 4-0 against their non-conference opponents this year in ULM, Chattanooga, New Mexico State and Louisville.

On a more sour note, Kentucky’s more than likely slated to lose anywhere from 3-5 SEC games.

10 | kentucky kernel

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky’s quarterbacks watch a teams drill during the UK football Fan Day open practice on Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

The three-week span to start in October versus Florida, LSU and Georgia will test the Wildcats’ drive and determination when it comes to staying motivated; they’re heading in as underdogs for all three games.

Other games Kentucky could drop are Missouri and Tennessee. Mizzou had a great season last year compared to expectations and many experts believe whoever wins the week two matchup between the Tigers and Wildcats in Lexington will finish third in the east. For Tennessee, the only reason to watch out for them is because, well, it’s Tennessee vs. Kentucky.

Where will UK finish in the Eastern division?

Barkley: They should finish no better than third, no worse than fourth.

As I stated prior, the week two matchup between UK and Mizzou will set the tone for the rest of the season. Georgia and Florida are expected to go one-two in the division, and with a hot start from Kentucky, why shouldn’t they sneak into third place?

Fans are optimistic about the Florida and LSU game, but BBN shouldn’t bank on coming away with victories.

One positive is that they’re both playing UK in Lexington this year. Home-field advantage in a packed Kroger Field is real and shouldn’t be overlooked.

In the end, whoever wins that week two matchup will come away with a third place SEC East finish.

Hunter: I will say that this team is deep and talented enough to finish second behind Georgia. Florida has a lot of questions, and it’s no guarantee that they’ll live up to usual Gator expectations.

If the Wildcats can avoid those yearly See EDITORS on page 11

Thursday, September 2, 2021

EDITORS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

detrimental losses to the Missouris and Tennessees of the world, they could find themselves in another “control your own destiny” position if the other top teams slip up along the way.

If the season starts to hit the rails like they’ve been prone to do in the past, don’t be surprised to see Kentucky’s name ranked fourth or fifth in the east at the end of the season.

Which ranked team gives UK the best chance to pull off an upset?

Hunter: It’s hard to say anyone except LSU for now. Last season didn’t show any promise that the Tigers were going to rebound quickly from the loss of talent from the 2019 National Championship squad.

Ed Orgeron must show that he can get more out of a squad that may not stack up with some of the other heavy hitters in the west. There are question marks for LSU at multiple skill positions, and if those concerns aren’t addressed by Oct. 9, a mid-season matchup in Lexington poses a possible statement game for Stoops and Co. Barkley: That team will likely be LSU. Coming off an abysmal 5-5 season following an undefeated national championship the year before, the No. 14 ranked Tigers are not necessarily “back” until they can prove it on the field.

LSU has a decision to make when it comes to quarterback after Myles Brennan’s arm surgery in July. Sophomore Max Johnson and true freshman Garrett Nussmeier are the only two other scholarship quarterbacks on Coach O’s roster, and no one knows what to expect from either.

Getting LSU at home in the middle of the season is something Kentucky fans

AP PHOTO/MICHAEL CLUBB Kentucky wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (1) catches a punt during an open practice in Lexington, Kentucky, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021.

should be salivating for, as it gives Mark Stoops and company a chance to get their signature win of 2021.

What player(s) are poised for a breakout year?

Barkley: Yusuf Corker is someone that defensive coordinator Brad White specifically mentioned over fall camp. White said that if Corker can have a good season, the defense will have a great season.

“Kentucky has every chance to find

themselves at 4-0 to begin the season. ”

-Hunter Shelton

He’s expected to fill the roles current NFL rookies Brandin Echols and Kelvin Joseph held last season, as Kentucky’s secondary looks to have another stellar season.

Hunter: If the depth of this team is going to shine through, it’s going to be a couple of freshmen that break out for the Cats.

Running back La’Vell Wright will be tasked with an entry level number of snaps, in rushing and receiving opportunities. If he is available to create a three-headed monster with Chris Rodriguez Jr and Kavosiey Smoke, the Wildcats’ running game will be as dangerous as ever.

Wide receiver Chauncey Magwood will also be in a position to insert himself in a high spot on the depth chart. After Josh Ali and Wan’Dale Robinson, there is no affirmative third receiver, and Magwood is someone that impressed in fall camp so much that it wouldn’t be surprising to see him earn more and more snaps throughout the year.

What will Will Levis look like this season?

Hunter: Will Levis carries a mountain of pressure on his back as the season gets underway. If he and new offensive coordinator Liam Coen mesh, then the sky’s the limit. His arm talent is NFL-caliber and he is capable of spreading the ball all over the field. He can be a dual-threat if needed and has all the intangibles necessary to succeed in the SEC. Fans will get to see Levis operate in the system that fits his style best, which should only lead to the best results.

Barkley: Levis is a quarterback in a linebacker’s body. He can throw a pass effortlessly 50-yards down the field and do damage on the ground after being surrounded by Penn State’s run-heavy offensive scheme for the past three seasons. The hype around Levis is real, and Kentucky hasn’t had this type of excitement around the quarterback room in nearly two decades – a challenge Levis has said he’s ready for in the past.

fall 2021 | 11

Thursday, September 2, 2021

New information emerges for one of six players charged

By Hunter Shelton sports@kykernel.com

Kentucky football head coach Mark Stoops understands that he has to trust the judicial system when it comes to his six players who currently face criminal charges.

“We’ve been patient, our players have been patient, and you have to trust the system. That gets hard,” Stoops said Monday during his opening statement at a news conference. “Our players have been out a long time. They missed probably 13 weeks, 14 weeks of time on the field right now with this situation, so I have to believe in the system.”

R.J Adams, JuTahn McClain, Andru Phillips, Earnest Sanders IV, Vito Tisdale and Joel Williams all face a first-degree burglary charge, stemming from an incident that reportedly took place at a party in a Lexington residence in March 2021.

All six players pleaded not guilty at arraignment on Aug. 20 and had their preliminary hearing waived on Aug. 26.

According to the initial report, an incident that took place at a Lexington residence on March 6 saw three individuals enter a private party uninvited. Once asked to leave, the subjects threatened to return.

Later that night, they returned with other individuals, forcing their way into the residence.

Court documents obtained by the Associated Press claim that a “physical altercation” took place, leaving multiple people injured.

Tisdale was also charged with first-degree wanton endangerment, as the report alleges that the subject pointed a firearm at a victim. In July, the sophomore was also charged in Bowling Green with possession of marijuana after being pulled over, according to a tweet from WDRB’s Jason Riley. He pleaded guilty on July 28 and was probated a 45-day jail sentence.

Stoops later mentioned that Denny Butler, a former Kentucky state representative and Louisville police sergeant, came to speak to the team over the summer about his work with exonerating wrongfully convicted people.

Butler, who appeared on Kentucky Sports Radio on Monday, told KSR that he is now working with the six players that were charged.

On Tuesday afternoon, Carlos Phillips, father of Andru Phillips, posted on Twitter what appears to be a letter from the UK Office of Student Conduct from April 23 seeming to clear his son of any wrongdoing.

The letter states that Phillips was accused of violating Code of Student Conduct Policy L, Harm and Threat of Harm. After an investigation, Phillips was found not responsible by Libby Hogan, UK Office of Student Conduct Assistant Director, according to the letter.

The UK Office of Student Conduct cleared all six players in June, but the first-degree burglary charges were still filed against them on Aug. 19.

Stoops knows that, at times, legal proceedings have their shortcomings. However, he said he feels hopeful about what will become of his six players, even if it’s not in his control.

“There’s flaws in the system

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky football players Earnest Sanders IV, JuTahn McClain, and Joel Williams (left to right) leave the Fayette County District Courthouse after their preliminary hearing on Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021, in downtown Lexington, Kentucky.

at times and we have to trust that system, and we will, but I also stand by our players until I have the evidence that tells me otherwise,” Stoops said. “So, I hope to have all the players out there, but I don’t know, that’s out of my hands. We’ll see what happens but we’ll go from there.”

When asked about the judicial process his players have faced, Stoops was cautious in the words he chose.

“Again, I’ve got to bite my tongue,” he said. “I just know what’s been done to our players.

I’m not sure what’s been done to others.”

Want to join the Kernel?

Email editor@kykernel.com to get started!

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Thursday, September 2, 2021

Family over football:

Jim Howe’s Kentucky journey

By Barkley Truax sports@kykernel.com

Most athletes of today would do anything it takes to get ahead in their respective sport.

They work their whole life to get to the pros and sign that coveted multi-million-dollar contract. But Jim Howe has made every important decision in his life based on his family.

Howe, 94, is the oldest living varsity letterman for the University of Kentucky.

Before being drafted into World War II, he played football and basketball in Lexington in 1944. He returned to UK from 1947 to 1950, deciding to focus on football. It almost didn’t happen, however.

“Tennessee was my first pick,” Howe said about his college decision.

While Howe ultimately decided to go to UK, he said that Tennessee’s coach contacted him and invited him to Knoxville for a three-day visit. “I decided that I was going to Tennessee,” he said.

It was a done deal until his high school basketball coach, Ralph Carslile, who played basketball at Kentucky from 193437, convinced then-UK basketball coach Adolph Rupp to come watch Howe play.

At the time, Howe was dating his soonto-be wife of 73 years, Marge. The two were in love, and Howe couldn’t bear to leave her behind. Once an offer to Lexington was extended, as they say, the rest was history.

“I didn’t want to leave [her] and go to Knoxville,” Howe said. “That’s too far away.”

Lexington was a much shorter drive home to Fort Thomas, Kentucky, which allowed him to go back and forth as he pleased throughout the semester.

As a senior at Highlands High School, Howe said he was voted the best all-around basketball player in northern Kentucky. He also made first-team All-State in football.

Being a multi-sport athlete in high school, he wanted to carry that over into college and play football and basketball — something that not many UK athletes past or

14 | kentucky kernel

UK ARCHIVES Jim Howe poses for a portrait.

present can say.

“UK was always noted for basketball and always played good teams,” he said.

“So I decided I would go there and play both.”

In 1944, Howe was only 17 years old by the time he enrolled at Kentucky. That summer, he began practicing with the football team under A.D. Kerwin, who was in his final year as head coach at Kentucky; Kerwin also served as UK’s seventh president.

“I really liked [Kerwin],” he said. “He

was a really nice guy and we got along really well.”

Kerwin never brought Kentucky to a season where they finished higher than fifth in the SEC. At the end of Howe’s freshman season in 1944, Kewin decided that if Kentucky lost to Tennessee, he’d retire then and there.

Kentucky dropped that game against the Volunteers 14-7. The lone Wildcat touchdown was scored by Howe, which would be the last touchdown a Kentucky player would score on Tennessee for three

seasons. “We never could beat them,” Howe said.

After finishing his time on the field, Howe took to the court to play for Rupp; the two didn’t get along, however.

The 1944-45 Kentucky basketball team went on a holiday basketball trip, leaving around Christmas from Lexington by train to Buffalo, New York, to play Wyoming.

After defeating the Cowboys, the team left for Philadelphia, where they beat Temple.

On New Year’s Day in 1945, the team traveled back to New York to play Long Island at Madison Square Garden in yet another victory.

“I was first-string, and all of a sudden, I didn’t get in [the game] one second of any of those three games,” Howe said.

Once the team returned to campus, Howe arrived late to a practice, and he and Rupp got into an argument that resulted in Howe leaving the team and basketball as a whole.

Howe called it a dirty deal. “I thought about transferring schools,” he said.

Howe realized that he still had football and his future wife to think about, so he decided to stay in Lexington. “That was probably the biggest incentive, I fell in love with the girl that I married,” he said.

On Dec. 20, 2021, the two will celebrate 74 years of marriage.

After his freshman season, he turned 18 and was drafted into World War II, but that didn’t stop him from staying active and being a part of sports.

“I was stationed at Fort McClellan in Alabama,” he said. “It was a great experience. I had a lot of fun in the Army.”

Playing football at the camp was unorganized and less memorable, but he recalls being back on the basketball court as one of his fonder memories.

Howe, who is six-foot-one or six-foottwo, was forced to guard the opposing center. “Back then, centers were only sixfoot-four or six-foot-five, but they couldn’t move,” he said. “They weren’t able to dribble too well, so I was able to intercept the See HOWE on page 15

Thursday, September 2, 2021

HOWE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

ball and run down the floor fast for layups.”

When he returned to UK in 1947, Bear Bryant had taken over the football program as head coach, which meant that not only did Howe play under Rupp but also Bryant as well. Howe said that he and Wah Wah Jones were the only athletes to learn under two of the greatest coaches UK has ever seen.

“When I came back, they told me, ‘We’ve got a new football coach,’” he said.

When he asked who it was, his teammates told him it was Bryant. “I said, ‘Who’s Bear Bryant?’ I didn’t know anything about Bear Bryant,” Howe said.

While he didn’t know his coach prior to his time at Kentucky, the two built a relationship over Howe’s tenure. Bryant’s coaching style instilled in Howe lessons that he’s taken with him, not just on the field but throughout his life as a whole — lessons that he has shared to those around him and have helped shape him into the man he is today.

One such lesson is how to block somebody. Howe said blocking someone means getting low and pushing them off their feet — in other words, grabbing the bull by the horns.

“When his feet are off the ground, he can’t move,” he said. “That’s one thing that I’ve taught all nine of my children, and they’ve all turned out to be really successful in life.”

Under Bryant, Kentucky made their way to the Great Lakes Bowl in 1947, where Howe scored the first touchdown in UK bowl history.

“The field was icy and watery,” Howe said. “You didn’t want to step in it, it was so cold.”

Despite this, Howe didn’t once feel cold, probably because he was on fire on the field.

While Howe doesn’t remember the particular play he scored that touchdown on, he does remember a punt where he stopped a hook-and-ladder-esque return for no gain; a pivotal moment in the game, he said.

“It was a good game for me,” he said.

“Any of the other guys who played in it would say the same.”

In 1950, Bryant and his Wildcats participated in yet another bowl game, this time in the high-profile Orange Bowl against Santa Clara, where they lost 21-13. Howe

UK ARCHIVES Jim Howe poses for a portrait.

said Bryant overworked the team, which played a major role in the loss.

Kentucky had been ranked as high as sixth in the AP poll during the season, but entered the game ranked eleventh compared to Santa Clara’s No. 15 ranking.

Two-a-day practices in the Miami heat rendered Kentucky sluggish heading into the biggest game of Howe’s Kentucky career, where the Wildcats couldn’t get into a rhythm. At the end-of-the-year football banquet, Bryant apologized to the team for making them work so hard and costing them the victory.

After leaving UK, Howe had a chance to play professionally with the Green Bay Packers, who offered him a contract to join the team in 1950 for $4,500 per year, which he turned down. That contract would be worth $47,250 in 2021, which is $612,750 shy of the NFL’s minimum salary today.

“We were happy at the recent National American Football league meeting to have been able to place your name on our

preferred negotiations list,” the invitation from Feb. 10, 1950 read.

“I turned the offer down because I was in love,” he said. “I wouldn’t change that for one second. Life is different from football and basketball; when you get married, your wife is your partner from then on out.”

Afterward, he started his own industrial heating company where he manufactures heaters. Today, he employs over 70 people and doesn’t regret turning down the offer at all.

Green Bay wasn’t the only professional avenue that Howe contemplated; he also thought about trying out for the Boston Celtics in the ‘50s. “I’m sure I would’ve made that team, I would’ve been an all-american in basketball,” he said.

While he didn’t end up pursuing his basketball dreams, everything worked out the way he wanted it.

Howe turns 95 years old on Oct. 5 this year, and as long as he can remember,

family has been at the forefront of his life.

Now living in Cincinnati, Ohio, Howe is surrounded by seven of his nine children.

“Family is the most important thing in your life,” he said. “Family is the number one thing in the whole world; if you take care of your family, everything will be fine,” he said.

Howe set the tone for what it meant to be a Kentucky athlete and has left a legacy at UK and in college football; but even if that never happened, he’d be just as happy, as long as he’s surrounded by his loved ones.

“Your time in sports are going to come to an end pretty soon,” he said, offering advice to current UK athletes. “You’ve just gotta do what’s right and take care of your family. That’s with you forever; you’ve gotta stay in love, and you can’t put things off.”

Howe said it is important to do things “the right way,” and his life is a testament to that principle.

fall 2021 | 15

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Don’t overlook Kentucky’s defense in 2021

By Barkley Truax sports@kykernel.com

Other than a few key pieces, Kentucky’s defense is starting from scratch heading into the 2021 season. “[This defense] has that feel back from 2019 after we lost Josh [Allen],” defensive coordinator Brad White said. “I’ve got to put guys in place to succeed.”

Kentucky has created a trend over the last several years to push some of their all-time best recruiting classes into the program under Mark Stoops. Here are some freshmen that White wants fans to keep an eye on for this season.

He first mentioned two of UK’s freshman linebackers, Trevin Wallace and Martez Thrower.

“They’ve done some good things.

There’s a lot of defense they have to wade through,” he said.

“The fun thing about it is they love [playing] ball. They’ve got a knack for finding the football.”

Down low, White feels confident about Abule Abadi-Fitzgerald and Octavious Oxendine.

White is looking for players to step up at defensive tackle, which is a position that has suffered in the past couple of years for the Wildcats. “[Fitzgerald is] going to be a major factor for us,” White said.

He’s still trying to figure out where the 320-pound Oxendine fits into the lineup.

White brought up more positives about UK’s true freshmen on the defensive line: Jamarius Dinkins and Kahlil Saunders.

“They’re what you look for,”he said. “That’s what an SEC defensive lineman looks like.”

16 | kentucky kernel

AP PHOTO/MICHAEL CLUBB Kentucky offensive coordinator Liam Coen coaches his team during an open practice in Lexington, Kentucky, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021.

They’ll all find their sort of niche role because they’re all different in their own way, White said about his defensive line.

“They have to figure out the speed and the pace and the strength [of playing in the SEC].”

White credited Marquan “Bully” McCall for being a leader of that group. That includes two fellow nose guards, who are about to suit up for year two in Lexington, Justin Rogers and Josaih Hayes.

The defensive linemen group will run deep, featuring young players that will be interchangeable throughout the duration of this

season.

White can’t say that about every position on his defense, though. He’s not “overwhelmingly” happy with the defensive depth heading into game one, but he does feel confident in the backups being focused and improving during fall camp.

“At certain spots, you definitely feel better than others, but that’s the same for every program around the country,” White said.

“I do feel good about the fact that those next guys up are dialed in.”

He says they’re continuing to get better and that he likes the en-

ergy of this group.

At the end of 2020, Kentucky ranked 113th in pass rushing out of 126 Division One FBS teams, something that has to change this season if the team wants to be successful in the SEC. That starts with getting to the quarterback.

“You go against the same guys everyday [in camp], sometimes you get more of a tendency read,” White said about competing against Kentucky’s new high-tempo offense in camp. “It’s hard to gauge.”

It’s a group effort if Kentucky’s pass rushing unit wants

to turn their performance around.

“We’ve got pieces in place to become a good pass rushing unit ... it takes all 11,” he said. “Everybody’s got to do their job, including the coaching staff.”

White is taking baby steps with this defense, which he’s taking one practice at a time, he said.

“I’m not crazy optimistic that we’re [going to] have 30-some sacks,” he said. “The front gets the [brunt] of that critique, but everyone’s got to do their job, including the coaching staff.”

While the defense is anchored by returning stars such as DeAndre Square, Josh Pashcal, Jordan Wright and Davonte Robinson, White pointed out one player in particular that he believes to be the defense’s “X-factor”: Yusuf Corker.

“He’s right on the cusp of being a really great player,” White said of the senior. “He’s one that people need not forget. He’s been Mr. Reliable for us for the past couple of years ... If he can play at that level, this defense can be something really special.”

Corker, a defensive back, is slated to fill in the holes left

by Kelvin Joseph and Brandin Echols, who are both set to start their NFL careers with the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Jets, respectively. While it’s not easy to fill the shoes of NFL-level talent, White expects Corker to take the task in stride and excel. “[It’s] trial by fire. Especially going against the offense we’re going against, they’re getting stretched,” White said. “If you’re not a starter, you better train and prepare as a starter because [multiple players are] going to be in the games.”

fall 2021 | 17

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Kentucky Football Media Day 2021 PHOTOS BY MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF

On the right: Kentucky players hang out on the field during the UK football media day on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

The Kentucky Wildcats posed for photographers at this year’s media day. The Cats will play 12 games over the season. Their first game is this Saturday, Sept. 4, at Kroger Field. | Continued on page 19

JuTahn McClain does a back flip during the UK football media day on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

18 | kentucky kernel

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Kentucky’s Jordan Wright speaks into a megaphone during the UK football media day on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

K.D. McDaniel, J.J. Weaver and Jordan Wright (left to right) pose for a photo during the UK football media day on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

On the left: Kentucky players hang out on the field during the UK football media day on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

J.J. Weaver laughs with a teammate during the UK football media day on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.

fall 2021 | 19

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