There were some ups and downs but Kentucky was able to handle Youngstown State 31-0 on Saturday afternoon. The Wildcats controlled the contest for all four quarters; however, it wasn’t without its hiccups. Thankfully for the big blue nation, there was nothing that can’t be cleaned up. Of course, you can’t have such a convincing win without plenty of good as well. So, with that being said, lets take a look at the good and the bad from the Wildcats win over the Penguins.
The offensive line is still a work in progress
Starting slow and picking up throughout the game has been a recurring theme for the offensive line throughout the season thus far and this game was no different. Protecting Will Levis has been an issue in early game situations during all three contests for the Wildcats. However, things have always seemed to pick up as each game progressed. This could simply be a sign of youth and inexperience. It seems as the unit gets more settled through each game, the more effective they become. Talent has never been an issue for the big blue wall; however, experience takes time. With that being said, Kentucky’s blocking up front looks to only get stronger as they continue to progress.
The outside zone looked to be effective when utilized
The Wildcat’s run game has yet to truly take off, at least in terms of normal Kentucky standards. On the other hand, it hasn’t been as ineffective as it has been made out to be either. Kentucky was able to churn out 103 yards on the ground against the Penguins, however, only at a rate of 2.9 yards per carry. The running game was able to get the most traction when they ran outside zone. This isn’t surprising when you consider the personnel. The Wildcat offensive line is smaller and more athletic than what has been seen in recent history. The same can also be said for the running backs as well, especially with the absence of Chris Rodriguez. Although more interior power running may show to be most effective with the seniors return, Kevosiey Smoke and La’Vell Wright have shown to do the most damage when attacking the edges. Perhaps we will see more outside zone concepts drawn up when they are on the field, going forward.
This pass catching group is deep in talent
When Rodriguez does return, we could see this offense hit another gear. The star running back is not the primary reason for this, however. Although young, the pass catching group for the Wildcats is talented and deep. Will Levis was truly able to spread the wealth in this game, completing at least one pass to ten different recipients. The Wildcats go three deep at tight end without missing a beat. It also seems that a new face comes out and shines every week for this wide receiver group as well.
Then you have the three starters in Barion Brown, Tayvion Robinson, and Dane Key. The speed of this unit was discussed in depth throughout the off-season and they have not disappointed. Brown and Robinson are simply electric when they touch the ball. Dane Key specifically is a name that seems to come up every week. It’s hard to believe he is a true freshman because he already has the looks of being an all-time great for this program.
Will Levis has the make-up to be elite
The Wildcats mayo and coffee drinking quarterback has moments of absolute brilliance. He also has occasional moments of inconsistency. That being said, the good always seems to out-weigh the bad and this game was no different. Levis threw two interceptions in the game but also made a few throws that seem like they should be humanly impossible. Levis is a playmaker, especially when a play is desperately needed. Sometimes that mindset gets the star signal-caller in trouble. However, Levis has a knack for putting this team on his back when it is necessary. Of course, this game didn’t put the Wildcats in a desperate situation, however Levis made a ton of big plays when the offense needed a spark and put up one of his best statistical performances as a Wildcat while doing it.
This defense is legit
The one constant throughout this season has been the defense. This was the case again in this game as Brad Whites squad was dominant throughout the day. The secondary and defensive line were both on top of their game and the linebackers once again showed why they are one of the best units in the SEC. Losing JJ Weaver to injury was certainly a blow, and everyone is obviously is hoping for a speedy recovery but this is a defense full of big play-makers all the way down the board. Holding an offense to under 200 yards of total offense and no points is impressive no matter who you are playing. This defense showed once again that they are a force to be reckoned with.
Larry Spicer will produce a weekly column covering both the University of Kentucky Basketball and Football programs for the L4 Security 13th Region Media Network. He is a resident of Corbin, and is married with two daughters. He is a communications major at Eastern Kentucky University and has covered football from the NFL to College since 2017.
