When a team struggles in every phase of the game as Kentucky did against South Carolina, changes are inevitable. They have to happen. The passing game, pass protection, run defense, and pass defense all broke down, leading to a lopsided loss. Outside of kicker Jacob Kauwe, who remained perfect on the season, it was hard to find a positive takeaway.
While many eyes are on redshirt freshman quarterback Cutter Boley, his development is a long-term project for a season that already feels lost. It’s better to let him play through the struggles. With that in mind, we're focusing on three other players or groups who could see their time on the field shrink if things don't improve quickly.
It starts in the trenches: The offensive line
You can't pin all the offensive woes on one person. The offensive line, with the notable exception of Joshua Braun, had a disastrous outing against the Gamecocks. Giving up seven sacks is a recipe for failure, especially with a young quarterback trying to find his footing.
The struggles were most apparent at the tackle positions, where Shiyazh Pete and Alex Wollschlaeger were consistently beaten by South Carolina's edge rushers. While the run blocking has been adequate, the pass protection has been a liability. Boley's two interceptions and one fumble weren't solely his fault; he was running for his life on nearly every drop-back. Until the line can provide a cleaner pocket, it's hard for any offensive progress to be made, and changes could be on the horizon.
The sisappearing act of Ja'Mori Maclin
After a brief flirtation with the transfer portal in the offseason, Ja'Mori Maclin returned to be Kentucky's go-to receiver. Following a breakout 1,000-yard season in 2023 at North Texas, expectations were high. Unfortunately, his 2025 campaign has been a major disappointment again though he is the leading man for WR's.
Outside of a few big games late last season, Maclin has been largely invisible in the Wildcats' offense for far too long. While Mark Stoops' offenses have never been known for high-flying passing attacks, the top receiver on the team has to find ways to get open and make plays. Whether the issue is the scheme, the quarterback play, or Maclin's own performance is debatable, but the results are not. He's supposed to be "the guy" for this receiving corps, and right now, it's just not getting done.
Dante Dowdell's diminishing returns
The Nebraska transfer came to Lexington with high hopes and is currently listed as a co-starter alongside Seth McGowan. However, it’s been McGowan who has looked like the far more explosive and effective running back. Dowdell's production simply hasn't matched his volume.
Against South Carolina, he carried the ball 13 times for a meager 24 yards. This followed an 8-carry, 28-yard performance against Eastern Michigan. Averaging under two yards per carry over the last two games is not sustainable for a primary or secondary back. While he can still be a valuable asset in short-yardage and goal-line situations, his role as an every-down back should be in question. The offense can't afford that kind of inefficiency from the running game. It is all they have done well.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion