A new era, a familiar challenge: Kentucky's depth tested early
The air around Kroger Field crackles with anticipation, a mix of excitement and nervous energy that's become a hallmark of a new Kentucky football season; especially after the last 3. Tomorrow, the Cats kick off against Toledo, and for a team with a staggering amount of new faces, the old worries about identity and depth are front and center once again.
After a couple of seasons that didn't live up to the standard he's set, head coach Mark Stoops seems to have re-focused on the core principles that brought the program to its peak. His recent declaration—"We're a physical football team again"—is a clear signal that the days of trying to be a finesse, pass-happy offense are over. No more spread fancy formations. It's time to get back to the hard-nosed, ground-and-pound style that defined the most successful years of his tenure. HB powers, HB dives, counters, and all the smashmouth offense you can handle. This commitment to physicality, however, brings with it a higher risk of injuries as bodies start to wear down, making the weekly injury report a critical piece of news for Big Blue Nation.
The potential impact of the running backs' status on game day
The biggest storyline heading into tomorrow's game is undoubtedly the health of Kentucky's new-look backfield. As reported by Covers.com, both top transfer running backs, Dante Dowdell and Seth McGowan, are questionable with undisclosed injuries. With the official game-day report not due until 90 minutes before kickoff, around 11 a.m. tomorrow, BBN is holding its collective breath.
Dante Dowdell, the bruising Nebraska transfer, and Seth McGowan, the versatile New Mexico State transfer, are critical to Stoops' re-emphasis on a run-first identity. Both players were expected to lead the charge, a duo built to wear down opposing defenses. While both missed time during fall camp, Coach Stoops had expressed hope that they would be ready for the season opener.
If either one is unable to go, or if they are on a limited snap count, it would put an immediate spotlight on the Wildcats' depth at the position. Jason Patterson, a redshirt freshman who flashed promising moments last year, and sophomore Jamarion Wilcox would be next in line. Patterson has a powerful running style that fits the Stoops mold, while Wilcox has shown explosiveness in limited game action. Though recent comments from insiders reveal Wilcox isn't seen as a primary option anymore.
The hope for every Kentucky fan is that the game isn't close enough for these injuries to matter, not really anyway. But the truth is, with so many new players and so many moving parts, this team is a mystery. The season opener will be a test of Kentucky's depth, a first look at Stoops' renewed commitment to physicality, and a glimpse into what kind of team the Wildcats will be this season.
Stay tuned to this space for all the latest updates as news breaks and the official injury report drops tomorrow.