Evaluating a team's performance requires an honest assessment of not just what went right, but what went wrong. To maximize production on the field, coaching staffs must be willing to adjust roles based on results. Following the game against Ole Miss, several players who entered with significant roles may see their snap counts reduced as other Wildcats prove they are ready for a bigger opportunity. Here are the players whose stock is trending down.
Zach Calzada, Quarterback
The most difficult position to play, the quarterback is also the most scrutinized. After a second consecutive underwhelming performance, Zach Calzada's stock as the unquestioned starter has plummeted. Completing just 50% of his passes (15-for-30) for 149 yards, he struggled to move the offense with any consistency. His QBR of 30.1 reflects a lack of efficiency and, aside from a few throws, an inability to challenge the defense. Compounded by Coach Stoops' post-game desire to "see Cutter," Calzada is no longer just looking over his shoulder; he is in very real danger of losing his starting job.
Dante Dowdell, Running Back
This is less an indictment of Dowdell's ability and more a reflection of his teammate's excellence. Listed as a co-starter with Seth McGowan, Dowdell was outplayed decisively. Averaging just 4.0 yards per carry compared to McGowan's 6.2, he was less explosive and failed to find the end zone. A backfield committee only works when both backs are producing at a similar level. When one is clearly more effective, continuing an even split can hurt the offense. Dowdell's stock slides from a 1B option to a more traditional RB2 role.
Kendrick Law, Wide Receiver
Kendrick Law led the team with 6 receptions, which on the surface seems positive. However, those 6 catches went for only 44 yards, an average of just 7.3 yards per reception. In an offense starved for chunk plays, a high volume of short, inefficient gains doesn't move the needle. With Hardley Gilmore IV and Ja'Mori Maclin both averaging over 27 yards per catch, the offense may need to re-evaluate its passing distribution. Law's role as a high-volume target is in question when others are creating far more yardage with fewer touches. His stock is down as a primary option in the passing game. And it is not his fault, Bush Hamdan has not done him any favors in giving him the routes he does best at. Someone has to get the short end of the stick and it may very well be Law.
A coach on the hot seat can't afford to keep giving reps to guys who are not performing up to their ability, or the coach's role being ineffective.
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