As Kentucky football prepares to hand the offensive reins to sophomore Cutter Boley, the message from his offensive coordinator is refreshingly simple. In a situation that could be fraught with pressure and complex schemes, Bush Hamdan is focused on letting his talented young quarterback play to his strengths. Stoops hopes turning to the young QB will fix one of the nation's worst passing attacks.
So what does Hamdan want to see from Boley when he gets his opportunity on Saturday?
"Just cut it loose and make plays," Hamdan said plainly.
Trusting in talent and development
Hamdan acknowledged the immense pressure and "outside noise" that has surrounded Boley since he arrived on campus as a big in-state prospect. His advice is for Boley to block all of that out and focus on being ready when his number is called. The confidence from the coaching staff is rooted in the significant progress they've seen from him since his freshman year.
"I think big time improvement from year one to year two," Hamdan said, calling the progression "glaring." He noted that while there is always a "surprise factor" for players making the jump from high school to the SEC, Boley's development has been rapid.
"We thought he had a really really good fall camp," Hamdan continued. "Uh, he was he was sharp, his feet were in rhythm and, uh, so we got a lot of confidence in him."
For a Kentucky offense that has looked indecisive and has struggled to create explosive plays, the plan for Cutter Boley seems clear. The coaches don't want him to overthink it or try to be perfect. They want to put the ball in the hands of their most talented passer and trust him to do what he does best: cut it loose.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time, he spends time with his family, and watching Premier League soccer. Psalm 121:7-8. #UpTheAlbion