Calzada is a Cat: Two BIG reasons why Kentucky football chose him over Murphy at QB

Kentucky football found itself in the middle of a critical quarterback decision, with rumors swirling about potential transfer portal additions. Two names stood out: Zach Calzada and Maalik Murphy. While Murphy has generated buzz as a high-profile option, reports indicate that Zach Calzada has been Kentucky’s top target all along. And now it is official.

Calzada, a seasoned veteran, has had stints at Texas A&M, Auburn, and Incarnate Word (UIW). He posted solid numbers during his college career, throwing for 8,660 yards and 73 touchdowns while completing 62.7% of his passes. Calzada’s most productive season came in 2024 at UIW, where he threw for 3,744 yards and 35 touchdowns, completing 65.5% of his passes. Known for his mobility, he’s also tallied 380 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns in his career, which aligns well with Kentucky offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan’s system. Hamdan prefers quarterbacks who can extend plays and offer dual-threat capabilities, a strength Calzada brings to the table.

Maalik Murphy, on the other hand, offers a different skill set. Known for his strong arm and ability to deliver the deep ball, Murphy is more of a traditional pocket passer. However, his rumored NIL demands—reportedly around $3 million—kept the staff from seeing him as the number one option. When looking at all the Cats need, that is not a bad strategy. Kentucky was reportedly exploring Murphy as part of its due diligence but ultimately appears focused on Calzada, whose experience and mobility make him a better fit for Hamdan’s offensive scheme.

While some fans initially expressed skepticism about Calzada’s potential, his development at UIW, a program known for grooming quarterbacks like Cam Ward, suggests he could thrive in Lexington. Murphy’s talents are undeniable, but his playing style and financial expectations may not align with what Kentucky is trying to get going in Lexington.

Ultimately, securing Calzada could be the first step in reshaping Kentucky’s offense, one of the worst in the nation last year. With his ability to move the chains both through the air and on the ground, he offers a blend of experience and adaptability that fits Kentucky’s vision for the short-term future. Where that leaves Kentucky after next year is up in the air.