s head coach Will Stein defined that the Wildcats’ restricted participant availability was a significant component in his determination to go for a two-point conversion of their 35-34 additional time victory over South Carolina on Saturday night time.
Kentucky entered the sport with seven gamers listed as out, together with key contributors broad receiver DJ Miller and linebacker Tavion Wallace. The opposite unavailable gamers had been linebacker Alex Afari, who turned ineligible following a current court docket ruling, defensive again Grant Grayton, lengthy snapper Cole Marszalek, offensive lineman Aba Selm, and offensive lineman Jay Clark.
With a depleted roster and restricted depth, Stein and the Wildcats opted to go for the win fairly than kick the additional level and prolong the sport right into a second additional time. Quarterback Kenny Minchey related with Willie Rodriguez on the profitable 2-point conversion to safe the victory.
“We determined proper originally of additional time (to go for 2). The momentum type of swung again to them after regulation. I did a poor job with the clock administration in the direction of the top. That was actually unhealthy by me.
“So, it felt like if we had been capable of go down there and rating, our greatest likelihood to depart this place with a win was to go for 2 and go for the win,” Stein informed Tom Leach after the win. “And nice execution by our guys, nice safety examine by Kenny to get him protected, to step up within the pocket, ship it again on a hitter line-type throw, actually with the toe faucet, and yeah, the remainder is historical past.”
Following the sport, Stein additionally offered a number of damage updates as Kentucky prepares for its upcoming matchup in opposition to LSU.
Defensive again Jaden Smith left Saturday’s recreation with an damage that appeared critical. Together with operating again Jason Patterson and linebacker Antwan Smith exiting the sport, Stein additionally revealed that defensive again Aaron Gates was a late scratch. Gates had been anticipated to play however was finally not able to return to the sector.
“Jaden Smith went out, which was unlucky in the direction of the top,” Stein stated. “We’re low at star (linebacker). Aaron Gates…we projected him to play. He wasn’t capable of go immediately.
Stein additionally addressed Miller’s absence, revealing that the broad receiver was at dwelling and that some unlucky developments had occurred over the previous few days.
“Clearly, DJ (Miller) was at dwelling. We had some stuff occur over the previous couple of days. It was very unlucky, and so we simply saved preventing,” stated Stein.
The Kentucky head coach stated the workforce expects to launch an damage report later this week, offering additional updates on gamers who’re coping with accidents.
With LSU up subsequent on Saturday, Stein’s main focus is getting as many gamers wholesome as attainable or as near full power as they are often forward of the SEC matchup.
Kentucky will definitely hope to have key contributors akin to Miller and Wallace out there because the Wildcats look to construct on their thrilling street victory over South Carolina.
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