Kentucky has produced some tough, productive running backs under Mark Stoops. Names like Benny Snell Jr., Chris Rodriguez Jr., and Ray Davis evoke images of grit and power. But in terms of pure, unadulterated high school talent, none of them compare to the newest addition to the backfield: Seth McGowan.
When McGowan steps onto the field in Lexington, he will instantly become the most highly-rated running back recruit to ever play for Stoops, and it isn't particularly close. Here is why he is a different breed.
The blue-chip benchmark
Coming out of Mesquite, Texas, in the class of 2020, McGowan was a certified blue-chip prospect coveted by the nation's elite programs. He held offers from Alabama, Georgia, and USC before ultimately signing with Oklahoma. His recruiting profile speaks for itself:
- 247Sports Composite® Score: 0.9378
- National Ranking: No. 134
- Running Back Ranking: No. 14
- Texas State Ranking: No. 20
These aren't just good numbers; they represent an elite tier of high school athlete.
A pedigree above the rest
To put McGowan's talent in perspective, let's look at where other notable Kentucky running backs ranked in their respective classes. Ryan Timmons was considered a huge get, ranking 24th at his position. JoJo Kemp was 25th. Even legends like Benny Snell Jr. and Chris Rodriguez Jr. were ranked in the 30-70 range at their position.
While recruiting rankings don't guarantee success—Snell is a prime example of a player who wildly out-performed his rating—they are the single best indicator of raw physical talent and potential. McGowan has that in spades. That is why he will be the most talent RB in the Mark Stoops era.
The winding road to Lexington
McGowan's journey to Kentucky has been anything but conventional. His promising career at Oklahoma was derailed by off-the-field legal troubles. But his story didn't end there. It became one of redemption. He worked his way back through the junior college ranks before re-establishing himself as a Division I talent at New Mexico State last season.
Now, he arrives in Lexington with a second chance to live up to that immense high school promise. He's older, more mature, and has a clear perspective on the opportunity in front of him.
Primed for a breakout
The stage is perfectly set. McGowan brings an explosive, game-breaking ability that Kentucky's offense has been missing. He'll be playing in a system that is expected to lean heavily on the run game. This isn't just about potential anymore; it's about opportunity meeting elite talent. For a player with McGowan's pedigree, in a conference like the SEC, it could be the recipe for a truly special season.
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. #UpTheAlbion