We discussed how Vince Marrow's radio interview was a disaster (you can read the full fallout here) and we talked about Stoops and Marrow's erroneous thought that it was just one bad year; now we get to hear more of the same on National Signing Day. Stoops took the podium first and dropped a few interesting nuggets:
Mark Stoops saying “You know” 900 times in a press conference cause he knows he’s got no plan for next year: https://t.co/JVshdF3dxg pic.twitter.com/f9baIBUZVs
— Chet Lemond (@ChetLemond) December 4, 2024
If you can't stomach sitting through the whole thing, don't worry we have the highlights below.
Stoops says that Kentucky will be in the market for a QB in the portal, no surprise there as rumors are swirling that Hamdan is not satisfied with Cutter Boley as the future.
Stoops also highlights his excitment for next year:
"Let's be honest -- we didn't have a very good year so I'm excited about change."
— Adam Luckett (@AdamLuckettKSR) December 4, 2024
-- Mark Stoops
On returning players, he said that Ohio State running back Chip Trayanum wants to return after a disappointing year. He also said that he knew about every portal player who has jumped in already, and that some will hurt.
Mark Stoops says running back Chip Trayanum wants to return next season.
— TheCatsPause247 (@TheCatsPause247) December 4, 2024
Highlighting individual players Stoops mentions Danville, Ky product Montavin Quisenberry, a 3 star WR commit. Interestingly, Bush Hamdan noted the need to get bigger and longer at every position and Quisenberry is just 5'9. You have to worry about fit in the new system.
Vince Marrow compares Boyle County wide receiver Montavin Quisenberry to Wan'Dale Robinson.
— TheCatsPause247 (@TheCatsPause247) December 4, 2024
"We have always watched him. Not a player afraid to come to camp and compete. His versatlity and overall athletic ability I just wanted him on our roster."
— Vaughts' Views (@vaughtsviews) December 4, 2024
Mark Stoops on @MontavinQuisen1
While discussing Stone Saunders, a quarterback commit, Stoops noted he is just a ballplayer, whatever that means.
Mark Stoops said QB STone Saunders is "just a ballplayer and you know he can distribute the football."
— Vaughts' Views (@vaughtsviews) December 4, 2024
Vince Marrow for his part talked once again how it was just one bad year, and that fans will be amazed at how many players want to come to Kentucky once the transfer portal opens December 9th. Speaking of the portal, please click here and bookmark that page to keep up with all the transfer news.
Vince also shared that he talked with his family about missing a bowl game, saying he will get to enjoy Christmas at home this year; something that has been missing since Kentucky's bowl streak. He quickly stated he doesn't plan on being home at Christmas the next few years.
Vince Marrow: "Recruiting will never be an issue here." 😂😂😂 If it's not the player's fault, it has to be the coaching.
— Major Tom (@KyTomCat33) December 4, 2024
All in all, just a tone deaf interview from two coaches thinking the fanbase is going to suddenly rally around a message of change from the people that caused the mess in the first place.