Saturday afternoon, the Kentucky Wildcats faced off against one of the stronger teams from the group of five, the Toledo Rockets, and came away with a 24-16 win.
Saturday afternoon, Zach Calzada’s QB play was not his best performance of the season; let’s be fair, it was also his first game of the season.
Calzada threw for just 85 yards and also threw an interception on the day. His biggest issue was overthrowing his receivers, and the wideouts had a tough time catching balls as well. There was also a fumble by Kentucky’s tight end, Willie Rodriguez, which halted a possible scoring drive.
Calzada was also dropped in the end zone for a safety after holding on to the ball instead of handing it off to the running back.
More offensive consistency is needed if Kentucky wants to improve on its 4-8 season a year ago. A 1-0 start is excellent out of the gate, but it’s still a possible worrisome issue with the SEC schedule looming and a date with Ole Miss this Saturday.
Transfer running back Dante Dowdell showed his potential in a standout performance yesterday, particularly with a game-changing 4th quarter run that secured the win for the Kentucky offense.
With Seth McGowen also proving himself as a reliable lead back, the team’s offensive capabilities have been significantly bolstered.
The prospect of these two talented backs playing a pivotal role in the Wildcat’s season is certainly a reason for fans to be hopeful and optimistic.
Last season was plagued by a myriad of issues along the offensive line, the running back room, and QB play. This season, they seem to have addressed some of the line issues and acquired two stable backs. The QB play is the biggest concern, as it’s still week 1, with a lot to correct.
For almost three quarters, Toledo’s offense, which was an excellent team last year, was held intact by a stingy Wildcat defense that will be fun to watch as the season progresses.
Kentucky’s defense combined for three sacks and six tackles for loss. The play of Alex Afari, Kahlil Saunders, and Steven Soles Jr. was a significant reason for the win yesterday.
Brad White’s unit always plays hard and tough-nosed. If the offense struggles, the defense is left to make plays. The Wildcats need their offense to pick up the pace.
The defense cannot be left in a hole as it was last season. It’s time for the offense to step up and create some game-changing moments.
A lot of work lies ahead for the Kentucky football team as the season kicks off this weekend, and it’s not going to get any easier with the schedule.
Now, the Ole Miss Rebels enter Kroger Field next weekend, a crucial game and a revenge game on the minds of Ole Miss fans and Lane Kiffin.
A win here for the Wildcats and you start 2-0, with the opportunity to be 3-0 with Eastern Michigan next week. The games against the SEC grow in significance each week, and with the season ahead and Mark Stoops’ future in limbo, a fast start is crucial.
Remember, a missed bowl game this season is not an option. The weight of your support is felt, and we know that fans will not forgive as easily. Let’s keep that in mind as we move forward.
For more Kentucky Football Coverage, click here. Kentucky Football Culture Shift Under Mark Stoops
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