Monday, March 29, 2010

Spring Football Preview – Wide Receivers

Players Lost: Kyrus Lanxter, Eric Adeyemi

Players Returning: Chris Matthews, Randall Cobb, Matt Roark, Gene McCaskill, E.J. Fields, Aaron Boyd, LaRod King, Brian Adams

Incoming Freshmen: Raymond Sanders, Jerrell Priester

Overview

The 2010 edition of receivers at UK should be much improved compared to 2009. The Cats return all of their key receivers with more experience. While the Cats love to use Randall Cobb in the “Wildcat” formation, it’s not always the ideal situation. Look for the Cats to use Cobb less in the “Wildcat” and more at receiver. Both incoming freshman Raymond Sanders and Jerrell Priester could be candidates to receive snaps from the backfield and line up in the Slot position at times. While neither are true receivers, they could be factors due to their speed.

Chris Matthews is ready to have a big season and should with most teams focusing their efforts on containing Randall Cobb. Matthews has the size and speed to be a big time playmaker for UK (especially in the red zone). Hopefully E.J. Fields can stay healthy as many expect big things from him. Aaron Boyd returns after sitting our his Sophomore year as a redshirt and needs to prove himself. Many people still feel Boyd can contribute if he dedicates himself 100%. Gene McCaskill returns and is a great role player for the Cats. He isn’t dynamic, but always in the right place at the right time.

The two players I’m most excited to see play in 2010 are LaRod King and Brian Adams. King saw action as a True Freshman and the coaching staff has been extremely impressed with his ability. Adams sat out last season for health reasons, but should be cleared to play as he is currently playing on the UK Baseball Team. Both Adams and King were Quarterbacks in High School so it’s possible UK could throw in the some trickery from time to time.

What about Matt Roark? He could be the “X-Factor” in my opinion. Roark is very tough and athletic. He has shown is athleticism on special teams for two seasons now. I’ve often wondered if Roark would be better served on the Defense with his all-out style of play.

UK has endured two tough seasons at the Wide Receiver position (2008 & 2009). With the Cats returning guys who have experience under their belts, the 2010 edition should have the ability to make plays in the SEC. The staff is recruiting the wide receiver position hard for 2011 as they will need to sign at least two receivers in the upcoming class. The best way to attract receivers is to have a big year throwing the ball.

1 comment:

  1. As a part of your football receiver training, you will be doing a variety of wide receiver strength training drills and plays.

    ReplyDelete