"Cutter deserves an opportunity"
In the aftermath of a frustrating 30-23 loss to Ole Miss, Head Coach Mark Stoops didn't just open the door to a quarterback controversy, he took a full can of gasoline and dumped it on the fire.
With a few stunning, candid comments, Stoops publicly signaled that a change could be imminent at the most important position on the field, creating a debate that will now dominate the conversation in Lexington. It's notable because Stoops is about as conservative in press conferences as he is on the field.
An offense in search of a spark
The backdrop for this controversy is an offense that has looked stagnant and inefficient through two games. Under starter Zach Calzada, the passing attack has struggled to generate any rhythm or explosive plays.
Through his two starts this season, Calzada's statistics paint a grim picture: he has completed just 25 of 53 passes (47%) for 234 yards, with zero touchdowns and one interception. While he's added a rushing touchdown, the lack of a downfield threat has been glaring.
This has led to a perception that Offensive Coordinator Bush Hamdan prefers Calzada's veteran presence, while Stoops is growing impatient with the lack of results. Calzada's shoulder injury, which forced him out of the Ole Miss game, now provides a convenient excuse to make a switch without it being a direct benching.
However, is it the play calling that is limiting the QB, or is it more of the QB? Seems we may get an answer to that question.
The "Future" could be now
Enter Cutter Boley. Mark Stoops has long called the redshirt freshman quarterback the "future" of the Kentucky program, and his post-game comments suggest that the future may have arrived.
When Boley entered the game in relief, he only completed one pass in three attempts, but that one completion was a 38-yard strike, the exact kind of explosive play the offense has been desperately missing.
That flash of potential was clearly enough for the head coach. In his post-game radio show with Tom Leach, Stoops was unequivocal.
"I want to see Cutter," Stoops stated, before adding definitively, "Cutter deserves an opportunity."
A decision looms for the coaching staff
Stoops acknowledged that he wants Zach Calzada to get healthy, but he also made it clear that a decision on the starting quarterback would have to be made early in the coming week to allow for adequate practice reps.
By publicly putting his support behind Boley, Stoops has put the pressure squarely on his coaching staff to make a change. The debate is no longer just happening among fans on social media; the head coach has made his desire known. For a fanbase desperate for a spark, Stoops' words have provided a massive dose of hope that a change is finally on the horizon.
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