For two games, Kentucky fans have watched quarterback Zach Calzada look unsettled in the pocket, often drifting backward under pressure instead of stepping up. It turns out, the coaching staff sees the exact same thing.
During his press conference, Offensive Coordinator Bush Hamdan was asked about Calzada's tendency to backpedal and drift on his throws. Hamdan's response was immediate and direct, confirming it's the biggest issue they are working on with the veteran QB.
"I think that's a great observation. I think that's the number one thing we've addressed with him is are the practices translating, you know, to game day," Hamdan admitted.
Opportunities left on the field
Hamdan explained that Calzada's habit of retreating is costing the offense dearly. In the SEC, throwing lanes are tight and receivers are rarely wide open. A quarterback's ability to navigate the pocket, climb up to avoid edge rushers, and create plays is essential.
According to Hamdan, those opportunities were there against Ole Miss, but Calzada's poor pocket presence prevented him from taking advantage of them.
"We just felt there was a ton of opportunities, exactly what you said, to climb up in the pocket and be a vertical runner," Hamdan explained. "When there's opportunities for him to push up in the pocket, be a vertical runner, create plays, that's what he has to do versus exactly what you're saying where he just felt like there was a lot of backpedaling, backpedaling, backpedaling."
This candid critique paints a clear picture of why the passing offense has struggled. It's not just about receivers getting open; it's about a quarterback who is not yet comfortable or decisive enough in the system to stand tall and deliver the ball, a flaw that has opened the door for Cutter Boley to get his shot. And it comes against an opponent that won't put up too much resistance.
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. Psalm121:7-8.#UpTheAlbion