Sure, its been a long and news packed off-season in the great state of Kentucky, but very little of that excitement was stemming from Papa Brooks and company's football team. Following a season that many labeled as a disappointment, many were unsure what to expect from a program that continues to strive for a consistent competitiveness in the dreaded SEC East.
Saturday, Papa Brooks' team showed something we haven't seen since Stevie Johnson was running routes for the Cats. Kentucky had an offense that can, actually, MOVE the ball! Mike Hartline's maturation at the quarterback position, and yes, I realize that it was Miami of Ohio, was the most impressive aspect of the game for me on Saturday. Number 5 showed a willingness to trust his wide receivers and moxie in the pocket that led to his most impressive day as the Kentucky quarterback. Mike went 18-27 for 222 yards and two touchdowns in an Andre Woodson like performance.
Of course, Hartline's efforts were helped greatly by a much improved receiving corp, led by the multi-talented Randall Cobb and the rangy Chris Matthews. Cobb stuffed the stat sheet and was a terror for the Redhawk defense all-day long. If Cobb and Matthews both stay healthy and Hartline continues to receive decent-good pass blocking, this offense will allow UK to reach a fourth straight bowl game!
While that bowl berth hinges on an improved offense, UK's defense showed once again they have a chance to be the real deal! Lead by Trevard Lindley, the SEC Defensive Player of the Week, and Micah Johnson, Kentucky pitched its first shutout in over 13 years. An impressive feat for a team that lost more than its fair share of starters off of last years unit!
We'll have even more on the season-opening win later, and some basketball news to come!
The AVE of Champs is glad to be back in full force, and that includes some posting by the ghost known as Gary.
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