5 things that are making the kentucky ver worried…..
As Kentucky football’s 2024 spring practice concluded, Mark Stoops declared himself satisfied with almost everything. The exception was a spate of injuries that sidelined nine UK defensive linemen during the Blue-White scrimmage. “When we get everybody back, the pieces are in place to have a heck of a football team,” Stoops stated. “And so, that is what is exciting for us.”
Kentucky, of course, is coming off two 7-6 seasons that many in the Big Blue Nation found disappointing. If Stoops and his men are to produce the breakthrough season that UK supporters expect in 2024, there are five areas of concern that must be addressed: ▪ Worry one. Those are defensive line injuries.
With a healthy squad, Kentucky’s defensive front should be one of its most notable strengths in 2024. However, based on Stoops’ remarks and his program’s actions, it appears improbable that UK will have its whole roster of defensive lineman available by the season opener against Southern Mississippi on August 31. “Expect six for sure to be ready by (fall) camp, close to 100%,” Stoops said of the injured D-linemen last month. “Maybe down a few for a month or so at the beginning of the season.”
In recent weeks, Kentucky’s pursuit of interior defensive linemen who have become available during the spring transfer portal window has seemingly reinforced concern that the Cats will not get every defensive lineman who is injured back in a timely manner. That is concerning because the 2024 UK schedule is front-loaded with important games. In week two, Kentucky will play host to SEC rival South Carolina in what is an all but must-win game for the Wildcats. The following Saturday, SEC titan Georgia will visit Kroger Field.
