There has been an increased excitement following Kentucky’s season already this year. Will that excitement continue as the season gets underway? In just about 60 days the fans of the Big Blue Nation will find out if in fact the excitement is warranted or if it is just another built up to an uneventful Kentucky football season.
One thing remains that this is not the Kentucky Wildcats football of old. They still have a lot to prove as they begin year 10 under Stoops. Stoops has always kept us guessing what is next for Kentucky, keeping things team related “close to the vest”. The team’s disciplinary actions, injuries are two things Stoops really doesn’t shed light on until the time is right.
State of the Kentucky Running Backs Room?
We have all heard the buzz surrounding the returning Quarterback and rightfully so. That is something to get excited about if you’re a Kentucky fan due to the fact that the team typically hasn’t produced an elite quarterback in a long time. Let’s face it, Will gives us all that excitement due to his potential. Elite running backs have been the talk of Kentucky the last few years. Often, leading the SEC in rushing yards with the likes of JoJo Kemp, Boom Williams, Benny Snell and most currently Chris Rodriguez.
Chris Rodriguez
This year Chris Rodriguez is expected to top his career off with a huge production. But back in May the star running back ran into some trouble being arrested with a DUI and now with rumors swirling that there may be some other circumstances involved which may keep him from seeing any playing time during his final year. This statement deflates the fan base a lot. But should it?
No matter what our beloved #24 Chris, has on his plate off the field, I believe our run game will be just fine. The Wildcats failed to sign a running back for 2022 recruiting class stating, “It would be hard to field more running backs with five scholarships existing” as a reason for that but then turns around and adds two running backs from the transfer portal has become an interesting move, given the rumors surrounding Chris.
The Other Kentucky Running Backs
I already believe Smoke is due for a breakout year given that the team has more receiving targets this year than ever before which will open the running lanes on the field giving him more opportunities, but I also believe that the JuTahn McClain and La’velle Wright is the next Rose/Snell combo. Mike Drennen’s on the field performance hasn’t really caught many people’s eye but I think he is another strong back that will make an impact.
So why would Kentucky go out and bring in two more running backs if they already have a full room?
Depth
Depth, a key to keeping the running back core healthy, not to mention the fact that they will lose Smoke and Rodriguez at the end of the season anyway. Another factor, potentially not having Rodriguez for a few games or for the season is a bigger concern, only time will tell which we will see.
Ramon Jefferson is a transfer from Sam Houston State that has more experience than any other running back in the room and can keep the big plays on the field if in fact Chris is not available. Jefferson has the experience of being in big games, 2020-2021 season saw Sam Houston State capture FCS Championship with Jefferson leading the way with 96 yards on 16 carries. This would prove vital in a absent Chris Rodriguez scenario.
Dee Beckwith has seen limited action at Tennessee the last two years and will be a big compliment to La’velle Wright or Mike Drennen. I think the Big Blue Nation is going to be in for a big treat with this trio at running back next year. Sky is the limit with these three.
Rich Scangarello!
The offseason brought a new Offensive Coordinator in after the departure of Liam Cohen. Rich Scangarello, has a similar system that Liam brought from the Rams only difference really in the versions of the wide zone is the use of a full back. That’s right a full back! The position has seen a resurrection due to the San Fransico 49’ers and their wide zone scheme.
I believe it is not only the uncertainty of Chris Rodriguez’s presence on the field that led the Wildcats to bring in two more backs. Mainly, it is to help build the new full back position. Kentucky has three full backs listed with Justice Dingle, Jack Varga and Dillion Wheatley, all Seniors with Wheatley being a graduate Student. The need for more running backs is due to the new position depth. I would expect Drennen to become a full back along with Dee Beckwith in the 2023-2024 season.
What does the Transfers mean for the Kentucky Running Back Room?
Given the two facts above, should explain the new transfers Kentucky has added to the roster in June. Big Blue Nation does not need to worry about how the potential absence of Chris Rodriguez will impact our running game. It will still be there!
There is a plan in case their “plan A” doesn’t work out. If Stoops have proved anything as Kentucky’s Head Football Coach is that he stands by his players and allows due process to take it’s course without a knee jerk reaction. He also allows his players to workout off the field things so that they can be a productive teammate.
There will undoubtedly be more by time August gets here on the state of Chris Rodriguez and how much we will see of him. For me I can’t wait for September 3rd to get here so I can watch our boys go to work.