KSR Today: Week 3 of camp, NFL debuts, Debbie Downers, and more football talk
Wildcats Scrimmage, Stewart Fires Up Fans
Kentucky football wrapped up another weekend of training camp with a closed scrimmage at Kroger Field on Saturday. While the full details remain under wraps, KSR reported unofficial observations from inside the stadium.
Running backs Dante Dowdell and Seth McGowan took a load management approach, sitting out to stay healthy. Jason Patterson stepped in as the lead runner and impressed against the defense's front line. Head coach Mark Stoops confirmed the scrimmage focused heavily on situational work, despite several projected starters being absent. Stoops also noted that the team is healthy heading into Week 3 of preseason camp.
The offensive fireworks came from wide receiver Hardley Gilmore, who made a dazzling one-handed catch in the end zone during the scrimmage. Stoops brought Gilmore back to Lexington after his brief transfer to Nebraska in the spring, recognizing the young player’s potential.
Defensive Line Coach Sets Tone
Kentucky's defensive line coach Anwar Stewart isn't shy about setting expectations high. In a recent interview on WLAP’s Sunday Morning Sports Talk, Stewart dismissed the doubters who predict a 4-8 season for the Wildcats. He declared, "It’s all about us in that building... We don’t listen to the outside voices, man. It ain’t about what they think. It’s about what we go out and do. We’ve got a very competitive team."
Stewart's defensive line is considered one of the strongest units on the team, boasting several talented transfer additions, returning stars, and promising depth.
Looking Ahead:
The focus shifts to coordinators this week. Brad White (defense) and Bush Hamdan (offense) will address the media following practice sessions. Players from both sides of the ball are also expected to be available for interviews.
Wildcats in the NFL: Week 1 Recap
Former Kentucky players saw action across the NFL during Week 1 of the preseason.
- Buffalo Bills: Ray Davis kicked a PAT and rushed for seven yards, while Deone Walker recorded three QB pressures and a batted-down pass on defense. Wan’Dale Robinson caught an 11-yard pass for the New York Giants.
- Dallas Cowboys: Zion Childress started at defensive back and made six tackles with one tackle for loss in a game against the Los Angeles Rams.
- Cleveland Browns: Brenden Bates caught two passes for 30 yards in his debut alongside new quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
- Baltimore Ravens: Devin Leary struggled in his preseason debut, going 3-for-12 for 43 yards with a red-zone interception.
Other notable performances included Chris Rodriguez rushing six times for 22 yards for Washington, Mike Edwards making a tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs, and several former Wildcats contributing on defense for Seattle, Carolina, Denver, and Green Bay.
“Madden NFL 26” Arrives This Week:
Josh Hines-Allen (Jacksonville Jaguars) is the highest-rated former Wildcat in "Madden NFL 26" with a 90 overall rating. Za’Darius Smith (Minnesota Vikings) follows with an 82 overall. The game officially releases on Thursday, but deluxe edition pre-orderers can start playing now.