Is Minter Sexier Than Shannon?

With the recent announcement that Joker Phillips would be bringing in Rick Minter as co-defensive coordinator to serve beside Steve Brown there have been many questions. Will the Cats be switching to the 3-4? Is Minter the best hire to fix a defense that was consistently last in the league in rushing defense? Can he recruit? While there are questions about what Minter can bring to the table for the Cats going into the bowl game and next season,what is unquestionable is Minters training and experience.While not the sexy pick Kentucky fans wanted(enter Randy Shannon stage left) he is possibly the smartest pick a young head coach like Joker Phillips could have made.The first reason would be the obvious familiarity.Joker worked with Minter on the Cincinnatti staff for a stint and obviously has strong ties to Minter.One of the best moves a head coach can do is surround himself with personnel he trusts and is comfortable with.Minter obviously brings that to the table for Joker.Secondly Minters football resume reads like that of a seasoned defensive coordinator with an almost unbelievable football pedigree.When you look at the people Minter has been surrounded by his entire 30 year career it reads like a list of whos who in the game of football.Starting with Lou Holtz at Arkansas,Monte Kiffin and Pete Carroll at NC State,Lou Holtz again at Notre Dame,Rex Ryan as his defensive Coordinator at Cincinnatti,and Charlie Weis for his second stint at Notre Dame.If its true that we are a product of our environments Minter has made a career of choosing the right environment to develop into a fundamentally sound football coach.Thirdly Minter brings an undeniable dedication to fundamentals and execution as well as a humbleness not seen from coaches of his caliber.Minter knows the importance of working with his group personally on a daily basis and this stems from his dedication to his posistion coaching.Under Kiffin he developed that base of fundamental techniques to produce a philosophy on playing good sound defense,while he was with Holtz he used that influence to absorb many of his coaching techniques.Lou Holtz was possibly one of the greatest motivators to ever coach the game of football and never settled for anything less than a players best.Minter once again used his environment to transform himself into an even better coach and coordinator. His humbleness is evident in his actions as well as his words.Minter never took credit for his hugely successful 92-93 Notre Dame defense,instead he heaped all the praise and glory on his players and chalked it up to a good recruitng base to work with at Notre Dame.Minter has never been above learning defensive startegies from those that worked under him.He was constantly using his surroundings to learn from not only his coordinators but his posistion coaches as well.He communicated with his coordinators and posistion coaches and learned from them.He realized everyone has something to bring to the table and utilized their ideas as another part of his football education. His openess to realize theres more than one way to skin a cat in itself is a testament to not only the type of person he is but also what kind of coordinator he is.
While some Kentucky fans on the message boards expressed their dissapointment and wailed in grief over the notion of Shannon being taken away from them,Minter was on the practice field doing what he does best...teaching student athletes. There should be no dissapointment in the winningest coach in Cincinnatti football history and there certainly shouldnt be any regrets.Kentucky fans have hoped,prayed,and often screamed for the University and its Athletics Director to show the kind of commitment to football that other SEC schools are willing to show. Vanderbilt almost got themselves a ball coach who they were willing to pay millions of dollars to in exchange for raising their program out of the SEC cellar,what has Kentucky done? We have a recruiting room that looks like a banquet hall for a high school football awards ceremony,sub par sound and video boards,and a stadium that needs major upgrades.Not to mention that our basketball coach makes probably twice that of what our football coach makes.Kentucky consistently throughout the years has been dedicated to basketball,and in the basketball crazy state that we are,its rightly so. "If we could just get a big name to come here we could really turn this football program around".Does that sound familiar? Most fans love that notion.But who says that Minter is not a big caliber hire? Did Shannon sit in an office with Monte Kiffen?Did he go to lunch every day with Lou Holtz? Or does Rex Ryan consider him one of the best football minds in the game today?No,No and no. Is he a succesful coach who produced some heavily talented defenses and inumerable NFL players.Yes. But Minter has also fielded 18 players from a defense that went on to the NFL in his 92-93 Notre Dame squads. Im not debating the fact that Randy Shannon is not excellent defensive mind and he was most certainly surrounded by alot of great football minds both with the Hurricanes and the Dolphins,but instead I'm asking why Minter who has been surrounded by some of the greatest coaches to ever feild a team is not considered a big name hire? For a football fanatic like me just having the opportunity to meet guys like Kiffen,Holtz,Ryan and Weis woould be an honor,yet Minter has coached beside these men and lead a defense for one of the most storied programs in history twice(Notre Dame) and hes not a big name hire?
Rick Minter will bring alot to the table for this Kentucky football team.Hes shown before that if you give him the talent he can produce a league leading defense and win ball games.Minter preaches execution with a fire not many coaches can immitate.He understands that strong defensive production is is the end result of hard work,dedication and being fundamentally sound.Something Kentucky has obviously lacked in a lot of games this season.His defensive philosophy that a defense has to take away what its opposition does best and force them out of their comfort zone is not groundbreaking but its what this Kentucky squad needs.Just throwing in a wrinkle or two for this defense could be the difference in forcing more turnovers or continuing to be in the lower end of the SEC in defensive statistics.Diversity is the key.
"Matching the finesse and the flexibility of today's offenses, I think you have to be a little more diverse. I don't think you can always be locked in to having four guys with their hand on the ground. But you also have to be smart enough as a coach to do whatever it is your players can do."
-Rick Minter

Looks like we got ourselves a defensive coordinator.

Go Cats

Decisions,Decisions,Decisions

Its that time of year agian.We as Kentucky fans sit dissapointed in our living rooms contemplating yet another opportunity lost to those Volunteers of Tennessee.Its also that time of year that we as fans evaluate not only the regular season but the coaching staff as well.As I thought about what this team has accomplished this year and what they haven't and I cant help but defend our head ball coach. As a head coach there are a thousand different things that are instantly thrown on your plate after you sign that contract.Coaching football isnt only about the x's and O's .You have to determine your philosophy,goals and what youre going to do to properly execute your plan in a way that gives you the best chance to win.When youve decided on the manner in which your team is going to carry itself based on your philosophies you have to stick to those principles and goals regardless of what you and I (the fans)think.Joker couldve had one of the most aggressive schemes and prolific offensive attacks in the nation and we still would have had something to grumble about on these message boards.As a coach Joker should have enough character and guts to stick with what he has decided is the best for him,his team,and his philosophy.If he doesnt then hes obviouosly not what we need at Kentucky.The worst thing Joker could do is start giving in to pressures and attempt to change what he thinks is best for his group of men.Hes not Rich Brooks,Lou Holtz,or Bear Bryant hes Joker Phillips,and a completely unique individual.You soak up as much knowledge as you possibly can from these people if you were blessed enough to have known them, but you never stray from what makes you an individual.To be successful you have to be true to yourself. Obviously a coach should reexamine his tactics from year to year.He should know that some teams may do some things that will make his prior strategy more difficult to execute.Monitor and change minor things all the time, even game by game but your core beliefs must be permanent.For the future I think Joker needs to build this program on a sturdy foundation of fundamentals and principles. Getting this foundation starts with surrounding yourself with the quality people.You have to raise expectations and demands for you and youre staff and if they cant raise the level of thier own self expectations,then they need to go.You have to have a balance within youre group,offense,youth,experience,conservatism,and risk taking.There has to be diversity.Now while Joker has done a good job mostly of surrounding himself with good hires,one that is constantly questioned is Steve Brown. I do agree that he needs to weigh his d coordinators success over the course of his career and make an educated decision.Whether he decides to cut Brown loose or not he cant even waver a bit in this decision.This will be the measuring stick that will decide what type of coach he will be. Whatever decision he makes he needs to be fully prepared to stand by his decision and whatever the outcome of it may be.
To those that think we will never be anything besides SEC bottom feeders heres a qoute for you....A mans reach should exceed his grasp or whats heaven for?"

But for now lets continue to build that foundation and go win a bowl game.

Alonzo Harris Commits To Kentucky

Alonzo Harris has verbally commited to Kentucky's 2011 class.He is the 23rd memebr of the 25 allowable.He had offers from Florida State,Mississippi State,South Alabama,Southern Miss,and Tennessee.Looks like the coaches got a good grab with Alonzo who boasts a 4.4 40 time but appears to be a combination of a frontside runner and a cutback guy.From the looks of his recruiting video it appears as if Harris is a good combination of power,and elusiveness,something the Wildcats have not been used to.

The Ingredients To Win

Like any good chef a football coach knows exactly what ingredients he needs to create the perfect gameplan.Unfortunatley this will be a recipe for a team that has consistently beaten us for 25 years straight.As usual on paper Kentucky looks as if it should dominate.The Cats are averaging 34.7 points per game 441.5 yds offensively and allowing 28.9 points and 347 yds per game defensively.They are in the top five in several SEC statistical categories,while the Vols are only in the top five in a couple (F.G's,Interceptions,Pass Offense,and pass defense efficiency.)The Vols are allowing 25.6 points per game and 381.2 Yds defensively. As we've all seen this season looking at a Kentucky game on paper and automatically assuming a win is a mistake. This Vol team is 100 times better than they were at the start of the season,the defense has went from being 62nd in interceptions to 17th,and 3rd in the SEC.Their secondary is without a doubt talented.They have a good linebacking corps and a strong offensive line.Although they certainly have passing threats,what worries me the most is the rushing game.Poole is a powerful little runner who will be tough to defend,especially for a team that has done so poor against the rush. Poor tackling form in this game will cost the Cats.I hope Joker did alot of one on one tackling drills,sled work,dummy drills,etc last week because we could use the reps apparently. We simply have to get a push up front and get some penetration. Tyler Bray while a good quarterback with a strong arm,can be inconsistent at times as he showed at Vanderbilt. He threw 2 picks to Vandy and let the Dores hang around for a little longer than im sure Dooley wouldve wanted. If he's constantly having to move and step up into the pocket to avoid the rush hes going to have a hard time getting into a rythm.I am concerned about the play action possibilities as im sure Winston Guy will be brought up into the box quite a bit if Poole gets going,which will open up this defense to give up the big play.Steve Brown better bring plan A,B,and C,but it seems that he only has a plan A. Off and soft coverage,too much nickel,and no attack from the blitz would be a dangerous scheme to run against the Vols.Poole is best when running through the tackles and while he doesnt have the break away speed like Derrick Locke hes not afraid to square his shoulders and try to power through you or make you miss.But comparitively Bray has a strong arm great touch and has suprisingly good pocket presence for a Freshman QB.So if you stay mostly in the nickel you have the chance to get burnt by Poole but when you start running fire zone blitzes and expect defensive linemen to drop back youre looking at an obvious mismatch with poole as a recieving threat coming out of the backfield on a hot read. With a safety creeping up into the box theres always a chance with this team to give up a big play to Bray and his WR group.While I dont think an all out blitz the entire game is a good strategy,you have to get pressure from somewhere as it obviously hasnt come from the front 4.Steve Brown cannot let this defense become predictable,this is a Freshmen QB, sugar up your coverage and try to confuse his pre snap reads,walk that safety up when they come out with run heavy personnel,walk him up only to drop back into coverage,put those corners up on the line and press,then zone them on the flat a little,take away the inside routes.With all that said no amount of scheming can help this team if they cant tackle the ball carrier. Other than Danny T this group takes poor pursuit angles and often goes for the strip first instead of the ball carrier.Or simply just bounces off the runner.The big key in this game will be can Kentucky bring down the ball carrier. Offensively I think you have to be able to control the clock with time of possesion.When you have a defense thats questionable and an offense with explosive capabilities you have to keep them off the field. With Locke as healthy as possible and Cobb coming off an awesome game against Vandy you need to be commited to the ground game.You have to be able to consistently move the chains and manage the game.The Cats have to win the battle up front and get that surge.If the Cats come out with the turnover bug and give the Vols a short field,or consistently go three and out their first couple of possessions they absolutley cannot win this game.Obviously you cant become predictable on offense either,so you need to mix in play action and the short passing game a little.This is Hartlines bread and butter. You get the defense concerned with the run and those short completions and screens and you open up Chris Matthews on fades,posts,and go patterns.With UTs secondary being 3rd in the SEC in interceptions you cant give them a chance to utilize their strengths defensively. If Kentucky can limit penalties,manage the clock,avoid turnovers they have a real chance to win this game.

Why So Serious?

Youve got to love Stevie Johnson. Batman and Robin have nothing on this guy.

Vols Beat Vandy And Set Their Sights Toward Bowl Eligibility

As expected the Tennessee Volunters defeated Vandy Saturday and need one more win to become bowl eligible.It seems as if this scenario is presented to our Wildcats every year.The Volunteers seemingly always have motivation to come in to the rivalry with renewed passion.Whether it be Phil Fulmers last game,playing for bowl eligibility or simply just a chance to add another Kentucky notch in their belt,this team has haunted my dreams since i was old enough to know that orange was the worst color in the crayon box.It seems like every year they head into this matchup with a head full of steam and plenty of momentum.This year is no different.The Vols while starting slow, dismantled Ole Miss,something Kentucky could not do,and beat Vandy Saturday. While the score from Saturday does not indicate total Volunteer domination and was actually a somewhat lackluster performance it still gives the Vols confidence heading into Saturday trying to get that crucial sixth win.Tauren Poole rushed for 99 yards and the game sealing touchdown in what was a pathetic performance by both squads.The Vol offense failed to find any sort of consistency,going three and out,throwing picks and allowing Vandy to hang around in this game.Tyler Bray actually started the game very well completing 9 of his first 10passes leading the Vols to a 14-0 start.However the next two drives ended in interceptions and he continued his errent ways the rest of the game.While the offense failed to perform up to its expectations,the defense came to play.They blocked a field goal attempt and intercepted Funk twice,one being a crucial pick at the goal line.Comparitively Kentucky,while starting slowly against Vandy finished the second half strong on their way to a 38-20 win.The Cats definately looked more dominant against Vandy yet it comes as no suprise that there are major holes in this defense,specifically against the run.Kentucky has simply not been able to stop anyonme.If the tackling doesnt improve along with many other problems on the defensive side of the ball Kentucky could be in for a long game Saturday.

Keys to the game:

1)Pressure Tyler Bray.If you can consistently get into Brays face and hurry him he is fallable.While he looked brilliant against Memphis and Ole Miss,he simply couldnt maintain any consistency against Vandy.But if you allow him alot of time in the pocket he will hurt you.He has good size standing 6'6 and has the arm strength and touch that you want to see from your quarterback.But keep him on his back and have someone in his face consistently and he cant use it against you.Bray is an smart QB but he is young.It would be wise of Kentucky to sugar the coverage a little bit to try and throw him a look that will confuse him,but were talking about a Steve Brown led defense so dont think were going to see anything too extraordinary

2)Control the clock.Having Locke back gives the coaching staff a no brainer offensive gameplan,run the football.If you throw in a little bit of Sanders and Cobb in there you have a recipe for a three headed monster. Its time to bring out the game management strategy.

3)Play action.Establish the run early and show the Vols that you are commited to the ground game.If you do this you set the bait for the play action pass.

4)Utilize Hartlines strengths-While personally I like a good game manager,most fans dont.This is one game where Hartline shouldnt listen to the fans.If he can play smart and consistently move the chains on third down he gives Kentucky a good chance to win.Simply take what the defense gives you.Hartline has done an excellent job of doing this all season. I really like that he sits in the pocket and goes through his second and third progressions when that first one is not there and makes good decisions.He has shown he can throw the fade route,and has a good target in Matthews,but this is not his bread and butter.Work those slant routes,screens,and short out routes.Hand the ball off to your playmakers on the ground and work that clock.If the deep ball opens up burn them on the post.If its not there dont force it.Punting the football is not a bad play.

5) Defense- One of the most scrutinized phases of this team has certainly been this defense,and rightly so. The tackling has been awful.Ive seen poor pursuit angles,the first tackler going for the strip instead of the tackle and too many instances of the backside defenders getting burnt on a cutback.The only consistency ive seen from this defense is the fact that they cannot stop an athletic cutback runner.Besides Danny Trevathan every player on this defense has had difficulties in getting their hands on a shifty running back.Most of their bad pursuit angles area result of going with the flow of the play only to be fooled and having to adjust their angles then coming in too late.While they have had instances of having problems stopping powerful frontside runners,I feel more confident in thier abilities to stop a back who runs to the playside consistently and relies on his momentum and power,simply because of sheer numbers.With these power runners you can creep Winston Guy up into the box a little bit to help that front seven put some bodies on him.While theyre not the most fundamentally sound tacklers,no runningback can continue to run with three or four defenders on him.Poole is a physical runner with great vision and works best when he can get a burst of power and explosiveness and square up to the point of attack.He has the ability to run through defenders and keeps his legs churning until the whistle.While he lacks great breakaway speed he will run through you if you dont wrap him up.Kentucky had better have been using the off week to work on their tackling skills.There absolutley cannot be any arm tackles against Poole or he will make you pay.

6)Off Week Adjustments-Great teams use their off weeks to their advantage and come into their next game firing from both barrels.They use that extra week to fully prepare for their next opponent and get healthy.Joker needed to be working on fundamentals with this team and thats exactly what he said he was doing,working on making Kentucky better.It will be crucial for this coaching staff to have these guys ready to play.

7) Forget about the streak. The way I see it Joker Phillips is in his first year as head coach which means hes 0-0 against UT as the teams leader.While the streak is certainly intimidating this team should find motivation in knowing they can start their own streak.

No one was more pleased with the Vols failures this year than me.I gleefully watched from my couch as they were dismantled by Oregon,Florida,Georgia,and Bama.My enjoyment of thier loss to LSU was heightened by the fact that they actually had that game but failed to remeber that only 11 men are allowed on the field at any given time.I have consistently rooted against the Big Orange turds as long as I can remeber.As a Wildcat fan you're hatred for the Vols starts at an early age and stays with you your entire life.Yet all that hatred has never been rewarded with a Wildcat win.Heres a statistic,The Volunteers have been beating the Cats for more years than the current players have been alive.Not one player on this Kentucky team can say that they have beat Tennessee.Its downright depressing.This year is our best chance at ending the streak.Tennesse by its own standards is down this year along with the rest of the SEC east and we have to take advantage of it.We had an opportunity to make a run at it but lost our step and faltered,but we can redeem ourselves with a win Saturday. Regardless of what bowl we go to it will all be for nothing in my eyes if we lose to UT.This team has an opportunity to do something special by beating both Steve Spurrier and breaking the dreaded streak all in the same season.As a fan whether you like it or not this is our real bowl game. Can they do it?

Go Cats

Stevie Gets Loose On Jim Rome

Stevie Johnson appeared on the Jim Rome show today and gave a must hear interview.Jim Rome caleed him the best kept secret in the NFL-no more.They talked a little bit about how Stevie felt about being picked in the seventh round,and Stevie said that only bothers people with weak minds.He has proved his worth on the field.Towards the end of the interview Rome mentioned Stevies rap at Kentucky and basically put him on the spot and asked him to freestyle,and Steveie nailed it.After the interview Rome said he wanted to give him a corespondence piece and that he was the only player from a 1-7 team that would ever get that invite. Its great to see Stevie is still getin' loose with the Bills.Steve Johnson is the lone reason I would ever consider rooting for the Bills.

Mike Hartline- Underappreciated

In the modern age of Kentucky football quarterbacks like Tim Couch,Andre Woodson,Jared Lorenzon were all well known for their ability to sling the ball and sling it often.But lost in this maze of completions is the role of the game managing quarterback.Mike Hartline has made a case for the smart,saavy quarterback,that while may not always be flashy and put up tremendous numbers,can run an offense effectively and get the job done.With the emergence of wildcat packages,power running games and West Coast style offenses,what teams need the most is a quarterback that plays mistake free football and does what he is asked.Mike Hartline defines all the qualities of an effective game managing QB.Hes knowledgeable,knows the offense,is a leader,and can move the chains.
The term game manager when refering to the quarterback posistion has generally been something of a derrogatory term,almost demeaning to the posistion.Because after all the QB is in the spotlight. He touches the ball on every single down and the expectations are high for these young men.Because after all a big playmaker at the QB posistion is something that is invaluable to a teams success.Those that excel at the posistion and go above and beyond expectations are highly sought after.Guys like Peyton Manning,Brett Favre,Tom Brady, have one exceptional thing in common, they can change the momentum of a game with one single possession.They have that uncommon ability to take it to another level.While they and their kinds accomplishments are certainly inumerable,we tend to forget those reliable players that are in the buissness of managing the game and playing within the confines of a system.These guys are just as smart,and probably just as knowledgable.What is their invaluable contribution to their respective teams? They are consistent,safe and most importantly reliable.This is not to say that the other greats are not reliable as they most certainly are but game managers have a type of reliability that coaches love,They know that they can depend on their QB to go out execute the gameplan to perfection,limit turnovers and control one of the most important aspects in football,time of possesion.
A quarterback is often asked by his team to be a game manager because the coaches are convinced that this is the best way to win the game.This is much easier for coaches when theyre not dealing with a superstar.Obviously if you have a QB like Dan Marino youre not going to tell him to go out there and manage the playclock.You would be insane not to take advantage of his rare and awesome abilities to throw the football,and throw it often.Average athletes at the Qb posistion who are students of the game and play within a system can have just as much effect on the game as the Bradys and Mannings but in a completley different way.It takes a certain type of athlete to run a controlled offense.A very humble one. When taking a look at a game manging Quarterback you have to find accomplishments that dont involve slinging the football 35-40 times per game.A good Qb will look at his game and say I played pretty well that last possesion,I drew the defense off sides and got us a first down,ran three more plays and ate some time off the clock,which gives the opponent one less possession.A game managing QB within a certain system simply isnt bred for throwing it 35 times a game.When the game plan is run heavy,manage the clock,move the chains type of play youre looking at minimal long yardage passes for your QB.When you throw alot you can more easily get yourself into a rythm in the passing game.When you have 30-40 repetitions youre going to get in that groove and its much easier to become methodical and pick defenses apart.Youre also going to see better,react better and the throws will start to come easy.But when youre running two or three running plays and throwing consistently for 5 or 6 yards on third down and converting all the way down the field youre simply not getting the reps to get in that groove.Its harder on a QB who is expected to perform that game management role.
When youre running this game management type of offensive strategy of course youre going to face alot of third down situations.If you notice those teams that lead the league in third down conversions, most have good effective game mangagers.Of course there are exceptions as a superstar can certainly convert those third downs.You know youre going to be in these 3rd down situations so you have to find creative ways to pass to get that first down.Those teams that are proficient at converting these 3rd and 5 or 6 situations have one thing in common.Practice.They practice these situations week in and week out,so that on game day it becomes automatic.They are confident that they can convert on that 3rd down and keep their offense on the field and limit the oppositions possessions.
Of course playing this style can create conflicts with fans and sometimes players.Theres simply no emotional high from a draw play on 2nd and long for either players or fans.But it works.A gain of 4 yards on a running play is something to be happy about but it really doesnt do anything to get the crowd involved.But short methodical passes and a solid ground game allows you to control the tempo and pace of the game.If you drive the length of the field slowly and methodically only to get a field goal,youve at least chewed a ton of the clock down.
In todays world the mobile Qb is all the rage.The most successfull college QBs are increasingly more mobile with the ability to take off when needed,often for big chunks of yardage.Often people think that a true pocket passer is missing an element in his game that would greatly change the direction the team is going.That element is almost always the run. Why does no one talk about the element thats often missing from a running QB?The fact that sometimes when he runs he misses a wide open reciever.When QBs take off out of the pocket and run they are often taking away some of thier best options.Those options being their wide open recievers,that had they waited just a second or two longer they couldve hit for a big gain.Even if theyre open in the flat theres always that chance of breaking it for a big play.With defenders getting faster and stronger with each passing college football season the running quarterback who thinks he can make it happen with his legs will soon be utterly wrong.Running is a viable option sometimes for the quarterback,those times when the play is simply not there or something breaks completely down and he absolutely has to.The best quarterbacks are not one dimensional.They just dont run well or pass well.They run the system,do what is asked of them and take advantage of any opportunities given to them.They have the instincts to know when the pass isnt there its time to move out of the pocket to buy more time or run.Quarterback mobility is a good thing but it is best utilized behinfd the line of scrimmage.Once youve moved laterally you have just limited youre what you can do.It is extremely hard to throw across your body and even some of the best athletes cant complete passes this way. If you can blend together reading defenses,throwing the football,and pocket mobility youre going to be a great quarterback.Moving in the pocket for a QB is an art form.When you shuffle and move up and around you must stay parralell head turned down field and ready to pass as if you never had to move.Big plays are made out of very slight QB movement.
Mike Hartline.... 5 years playing in collegic athletics,three years as a starter and virtually zero fan support. He is possibly the most scrutinized player to ever wear the blue and white. Yet to a trained eye he has given us very little to be overly critical of. Lets look at the physical attributes of the ideal QB.He needs to be big with a strong arm that has the ability to throw it downfield.But he also needs to have the touch.Sure he can sling it 50 yards but can he throw the out route?His footwork needs to be good with great agility for moving in and around the pocket to get himself out of trouble. HIs knowledge of the game needs to be on the level of the coaching staff and his eyes need to be keen able to read the defense and pick out the blitzers. He needs good instincts and the ability to make good decisions when pressured and go through his complete progressions. Now lets take Mike Hartline and put him up aginst this mold. Mike is a big guy,standing at 6'5 or so.Hes not big girth wise as hes not the thickest of QBS out there but his height puts him at an advantage.This size makes it easy for him to see over top of the line and read the defense,something tall Qbs take for granted but little guys envy.His arm strength while not of the rocket caliber, is solid enough to get a good deep ball out there when the need arises.While sometimes during his career his accuracy and touch have been questioned this season he has stepped up his game and his completion rate has stayed pretty steady,averaging in the high 60's.Hes not the most mobile quarterback in the NCAA but he has shown this year that he can shuffle and use his footwork to buy himself a few more precious seconds.Hes always looking for that viable option to throw to,whether it be his first,second or third progression.HIs knowledge of Kentuckys system cannot be matched by any player.Mike has been in this system for 5 years now.He knows it and he knows it well.He also has a high aptitude for recognizing defensive blitzes and when a play is not going to work,then checking the play at the line of scrimmage.His decision making while at times was on trial has been improved 100% this season.If his first option is not open he makes the smart choice to not force the ball and go through his progression to the next viable option.If you break Mike down like this and simply look at his strengths you can clearly see what he brings to the table for this team.As fans it is easy to be overly critical of Hartlines game managing tendencies,citing his short throws and dump off passes as poor decisions,while in reality within the confines of this system he is actually making great plays. Of course hes going to make mistakes,hes not Peyton Manning but he plays well enough to give this team a real chance to win.I think when its all said and done Mike HArtline should go down in Kentucky history as one of the better quarterbacks to have played the game.Who else has beat Louisville 3 times?Who can say they beat Steve Spurrier.Only Mike HArtline.

Vanderbilt Scuffle Leads to Suspension For Neloms.

Per NCAA rules Martavius Neloms will sit out the first half against UT at Neyland stadium.The SEC could have issued further punishment but instead chose that the NCAA mandated suspension was sufficient.As a defensive guy I generally approve of raw agression at all times,however this was not a smart move on the part of the Sophomore.You have to play smart.If you have a big lead in the 4th quarter you have to think about what youre doing in a situation like that.You simply have to have control of your emotions regardless of what an opposing player does or says. I understand it was probably a gut reaction on the part of Neloms ,as Im sure it wouldve taken alot of restraint to take a punch and not retaliate but he has to think of the team.We certainly need everything we have in order to walk into Neyland Stadium and break the streak.While I understand his actions, it is frustrating that he could not exercise better self control.As Joker said "We will not be that team that has personal fouls" Football is a game of emotions but sometimes youve just got to control them.

The Cats Are Bowl Eligible....Again

It wasnt always pretty,but the Cats are bowl eligible once again after a 38 to 20 route of Vandy on Senior Day. This years class of seniors have certainly been a fundamental piece of modern day University of Kentucky football history.Heres to you seniors,youre efforts are more than appreciated. Mike Hartline, while possibly the most scrutinized player to ever wear the blue and white, has had a fantastic senior season and quite frankly a really good career.He has done more than what was asked of him.It hasnt been a love affair and there have been some dark times,but I guarantee this team will miss Mike next year. Derrick Locke has been one of the better running backs in Kentucky history and most certainly would be in the top two of the SEC in rushing this year if it hadnt been for injury.Locke has had a great career and we will definately miss his break away speed and athleticism.This class of talented players epitomized not only what it means to be a student athlete but also good role models .This University has been better off with the faces of Lumpkin,Allen,Matthews,Locke and the others and they will truly be missed.
Once again THE Randall Cobb put on his big boy pants and helped carry this team across the finish line Saturday. He is simply amazing.There really are no words to describe what his play does for this team,lose him to the NFL next season and we will certainly feel the effects immediately. He is a gamechanger. When this team has needed inspiration or a big play this young man has consistently come through for them.His career high 170 yards on the ground lifted this teams spirits and helped them to lose that sluggish mentality they started the game with.His breakway run for 73 yards on the scramble did wonders for the play of this team.Not only was it a momentum changer,it also boosted the confidence of the offensive line and the rest of the team.
Once again the defense strruggled against the rush. Even with Vandy completley depleted at the RB posistion they still rushed for over 200 yards against the Cats.If you consider that a defensive back had 17 yards rushing against this D,frustration starts to creep in.But that has been the story the entire season for this squad.
Danny Trevathan had another solid game,and continues to prove each and every week that he is the best defensive player Kentucky has.When its all said and done this young man has the chance to be one of the best LB's Kentucky has ever seen. Winston "Headhunter" Guy had a decent game.While he and his counterparts struggled early they did finish strong and provided excellent run support against the Commodores.
Mike Hartline while coming out almost sluggish in the first half rallied along with the rest of the team and put up his usual numbers of over 200 yds passing and a completion percentage in the 60's and threw for a TD.While arguably not his best game this season he was productive and had 0 turnovers.You cant ask for much more out of your QB.
Joker told the media that he left the halftime speeches to his players and simply told them if they werent going to play dont bother coming back out for the second half.This speaks volumes for this teams emotional leaders.DT Ricky Lumpkin said some things to get these guys fired up and they responded.This is exactly what you need from your seniors,especially on a day that we celebrated their success.They said what needed to be said and came out in the second half with renewed fire and passion.If only we couldve started the first half with this passion this year, we just mightve been legitimate contenders for an SEC east title.
What seemed at times to be a dissapointing season has turned into another year of bowling for the CAts and thats always something to cheer about.

Go Cats!!!!!!!!!!!

Doctors Clear D. Locke

Kentucky's lading rusher has been cleared by the team doctors and is listed as "day to day" He is practicing without contact.Although we probably wont need his playmaking abilities against Charelston Southern,we do need him healthy for the duo of Vandy and Tennesee.Hopefully Kentucky can build a big lead Saturday and get Locke(as well as other starters)some rest.Stay healthy big man.

Donald Russells Mom Speaks

After the Mississppi State game and the mysterious rumors of him wanting to leave the team coupled with his non involvement at the halfback posistion Saturday, Russells mom had this to say...(From Kentucky 247sports.com)

"Hey all..this is Donald’s mother..I wanted you to know that I read the blogs the good and the bad. We always use them as a learning tool to improve so believe me when I say all of your comments are appreciated. I couldn’t sit back and just let everyone assume what is going on. The coaches are only going to tell the fans so much but I feel I will tell you. Donald and Johnthan George was recruited because Coach Brooks wanted tailbacks that could hit the hole in the middle and break tackles. Now Joker and Coach Sanders (also quoted by Joker in different press conferences) they feel the smaller runnerbacks fits what the offense needs and the direction the offense is going in.

Donald has been dealing with the pressure of knowing the Coaches do not feel they need his type of running style. He was told by a coach after the GA game that “his margin of error is smaller than the other players because the Offensive Coordinator wants to play #4 Sanders so he cannot make any mistakes so work harder.” Donald has been commended by teammates and other Coaches (EVEN Joker in a press conference) on how well Donald has shown good character by still working hard in practice, doing everything they have asked him to do and by not showing any ATTITUDE. I watched the Giants/Dallas game last monday and a running back fumbled the ball and the coach put him right back in. The commentator stated he commends that coach for putting that player right back in the game and that the coach was a true players coach. Also, in the Fl. State game on Thursday the quarterback fumbled the ball the last few seconds of the game costing them the game. His team rallied around him and the head coach talked with him and touched him to consule him. He knew what the young man must have felt to know that he just lost that game after a start of a great season.

When Donald fumbled his ball (WHICH WAS A HORRIBLE FUMBLE FOR THE TEAM) I was in the stands and I just screamed repeatedly No No No (along with the some others words I will not type) because I knew what that meant and what he was going to feel like. NOT ONE COACH went to him to say “What were you thinking or that he was to good of player to make such a mistake or to even encourage him as the Fl State coach did”…my family and I knew what was going to happen.. he was punished because he has no room for a margin of error because of his running style. Now don’t get us wrong..not every coach can go over and give every kid a hug..that is not what we are asking but Donald and (us his family) can see what their intentions are for him. I told Donald everything that he did wrong and every play that he missed because Donald has to work on being a great tailback not just a good tailback if you want to be in the SEC. I’m sorry if any reader believes there is more to the story but there isn’t.

This is Donald’s lesson on having mental toughness. You have to build a bond and a relationship with players in order for them to believe and trust in what you are doing. If you don’t.. then you won’t be able to motivate them to do more than they have already have for you. They lost our trust with their words so we have been going by their actions and their actions are speaking loud and clear. This may not be the appropriate to put my thoughts online especially when we are easy going quiet people but this is our story. Yes this is Jokers team and he should and has the right to do what he feels is best for the team and he has our respect for that. Joker is under a lot of pressure and my family and I are so proud of him and wish him the best as a coach…"

Today Mrs. Russell spoke with Larry Vaught on the issue again via Vaughts ViewsTanya Russell says they love Kentucky and want to bleed blue,but she is "running out of motivational speeches for her son after every game" She also stated that "the fun is being sucked right out of him every week" and "so many of the other players are just unhappy"

There seems to be issues(at least with Joker) of not playing a kid for fumbling the football,but Mrs Russell points out that he didnt even have a chance to fumble against State.

While Russell did play special teams Saturday,his use on the offensive side of the ball was indeed very limited. In fact in the fourth quater when Sanders went out of the game the coaching staff chose to give Coshik Williams some reps.When asked about Russells limited play Joker had this to say..

"Late in the game when (Sanders)went out for a couple of snaps and we went for Williams who came in and gave us something,picked up blitzes and hit a couple of runs,and was seeing things also."

Mrs. Russell told Vaught that she planned to speak to Joker face to face and that they do not want to leave Kentucky as some have speculated.

For a team standing at 5-5 and facing a do or die portion of thier season to become bowl eligible this is not something that needs to be at the forefront.Why are so many players unhappy? What implications could this have for Joker and his Cats?Probably nothing profound,but it will make for some uncomfortable questions from the Lexington media this week.While I do not fault Mrs Russell for defending her son,as any good mother would do,I just dont like her timing. I can understand her feelings of helplessness having her son sitting on a college campus while shes thousands of miles away unable to offer this young man any support,thats hard for any parent.But as she stated she trusted Joker and the coaches to be his support,his mentors and to mold him into an even stronger young man.Maybe Joker isnt motivating this young man,maybe he isnt giving him the conservative criticism that he needs,but then again we arent at practice.At this stage in the season Joker and Russell need to be concerned with one thing,and that is Charelston Southern.For Kentucky to be bowl eligible they have to beat Charleston Southern,and to better thier chances it would be in their best interest to beat Vandy and Tennesee.There's no time on the Kentucky schedule to worry about who's not getting the playing time they think they deserve,the only thing they need to concern themselves with is how to get better.Whether Mrs Russell gets her face time with Joker or not,he is the coach and he decides what is best for this football team.Not enough Playing time Donald? Here is your inspiration to show Joker what youre made of.

For Whom The Cowbell Tolls-Miss State Defeats The Cats

The Cats lose another game in which they simply cant take advantage of the opportunities presented to them.Once again we were treated to mistake prone football,poor execution and suddenly, at times an unproductive offense.I thought the defense played well down the stretch(other than the 4th quarter TD by Relf) when they forced Miss state to punt on two possesions early in the 4th,but as valiant as our offenses effort was to bring home the w it just wasnt enough. Mike was pressured hard pretty much the entire time on that last drive.It came from the middle the outside and the o lline simply could not keep those maroon jerseys off of him. Manny Diaz has guts.He knew he needed to get Mike out of his comfort zone,and shake him up a bit on that last drive and MSU did a great job executing.Hartlines last pick to seal the deal was the result of Matthews running the wrong route and he had a LB breathing down his neck as he tossed it up.I am dissapointed in the Chris Matthews weve seen of late.He has to realize he needs to be a team leader for this squad.Team leaders do the little things,they listen to their coach,are the first to show up and the last to leave,and perform in the clutch.Leaders do not sit on the sidelines for the first quarter for viloations of team rules.Matthews needs to realize his actions can and do hurt this football team.Violations of rules dont just hurt you Mr. Matthews,it has a reflection on this entire team. The O line overall played fair to poor.Too many hurried passes,pressures and sacks.Hartline did a good job on a few of those blitzes I thought making moves in the pocket to buy himself some time and making completions.Some of his sacks were just unexplainable.When you look at the RT and he gets spun 360 degrees and his back is facing the sideline its never a good thing.A couple of his sacks were when a blitz was the call but the D end got to him before the blitz could.Just poor blocking on several of those.Looking at Hartlines game I dont think he played that bad,throwing for 258 yards 2 TDs and 3 INT's.If you look at it as the Wildctas lost the game and he threw 3 picks and only completed 56.1% of his passes,you could say Hartline most certainly played sub par.But take away the interception on the final drive that was the result of Matthews running the wrong route,the jump ball lost in the endzone and add the screen pass that was dropped by Allen and he wouldve likely had 300 yds passing with only 1 INT.That screen pass wouldve been a game changer.He had his blockers lined up and couldve broke it for momentum shifting play.This is the nature of a game managing QB.Theyre very rarely the hero,but they deffinatley deserve credit for preventing complete and utter catostrophe.
I hate to sound too negative and single someone out(because it was a team effort) but Winston Guy is terrible. He gets burnt,plays out of posistion and apparently thinks SEC football is two hand touch.Its hard to judge effort but at times I wonder what was he doing? The D line as usual could get no pressure in the passing game and were non existant in the running game.How many times can you get drove off the ball or get hooked before you say hey wait a minute.Granted Miss State wasnt that big of a passing threat but they absolutely burnt us on that play action pass for a touchdown.Neloms was burnt in the first quarter on the drive that set up thier field goal on the wheel route.He bit underneath and lost him as he turned upfield. I did like Joker using the run to set up play action as this resulted in a couple big plays for us.But SAnders absolutely has to hold onto that football.I liked that Joker went right back to him in their next series,that will help build his confidence. Turnovers, and a few dropped passes here and there killed us.HOLD ON TO THE FOOTBALL.Granted the fumble from Sanders didnt result in any points on the board but theres no excuse.To a few recievers you have to catch the ball before you worry about running.Yards after the catch dont amount to anything if you dont see the ball and catch it first. Hartlines picks while the result of heavy pressure couldve probably been avoided.The pick on the fade route to Matthews in the endzone was the result of a good play on the part of the safety.NO one around him and he watched the QB.Came up and made a big play.HIs last pick was either the result of Matthews running the wrong route or the worst pass ive ever seen.But in his defense he was about to get jacked up almost everytime he released the ball. Statistically we outgained them in almost all phases yet we lose the game.FRUSTRATING!!!! It did appear that the effort was there and were getting closer to having all 3 phases on the same page for 60 minutes,but were not there yet. Joker says we would see what kind of team we really have if we could get everyone to play on the same day. Well Coach you have to make that happen. No more excuses of well were fighters and we played our hearts out.Thats just not cutting it.You have to find a way to motivate this entire team for 4 quarters and not just one phase of it.Until you do expect more outcomes like this.It all comes down to you coach

Tradition

Besides The Immortals of 1898,the Kentucky Wildcats of 1950 were quite possibly the best team in Wildcat football history.Led by coach Bear Bryant,the Wildcats were the SEC champions and won the Sugar Bowl against Oklahoma,giving them a share of the National Championship that year,and according to the Sagarin rankings were the number one team in all of college football that year.The Wildcat offense produced 393points while the defense only allowed 69.With All Americans like Babe Parilli,Bob Gain,and Walt Yowarsky theres not much doubt that this team was one of Kentuckys greatest.Kudos to whoever uploaded this video to YouTube,it makes me wish I was old enough to remember the great teams of the Bear Bryant era.

Locke Out For Mississippi State Game.

Derrick Locke will not play Saturday against Mississippi State says Coach Joker Phillips.Sanders will be the starter at the RB posistion against the Bulldogs.This is unfortunate as the Cats needed Locke to be healthy coming into a very important road game. Sanders has been efficient running the football but it wouldve been nice to have Locke back.On the positive side Chris Matthews and LaRod King(ankle) both are back in practice. But with the suspension of Roark it will be Brian Adams time to shine.He needs to step up big at that third WR posistion. Look for him to play a big role in both special teams and on the offensive side of the ball.

Go CATS!!!!!!

A Fans Message To Our Kentucky Wildcats

As our Kentucky Wildcats there is a tradition to be upheld.Those that went before paved the way for you with blood and sweat.These men played thier hearts out every game for 60 minutes,no excuses.Whether they won or lost they could always look at thier teammates and say I did everything I could.They bled and and sacrificed so that you could be here today.They played the game with heart,passion,and purpose.They played through pain through adverse conditions and when they were outmatched.They played when they were hurt,when they were tired,and when others counted them out.They alone know your sacrifices and what faces you,not the fans,not your classmates,only them.There are many who do not have this opportunity that has been bestowed upon you.Those that gave thier all but ultimately came up short.Those whos careers ended when the final whistle of thier last high school football game sounded.Men whos heart and desire could not be outmatched but physical limitations did not allow them to play at this level.You all do not have those limitations.You stand here before your coaches,classmates,and fans with the skills to continue the tradition of the University of Kentucky.NOt many can say theyve stood where you are.There are those that doubt you,the group that says you cant do this,youre simply not good enough.Remember the boos,the constant nagging doubt from the media,all this means nothing.The only thing that can limit you is your own mind.If you set your mind to go out and give 100% for 60 whole minutes of football no one can stop you.Do this for the fan who has been at every game since the 70's,the old man in an eastern Ky hollow that didnt get his chance to prove himself on a collegiate football field,and mainly do it for yourselves.Play this game like its your last.Do not save anything for later,do not let up give everything youve got from the time the whislte blows to the last snap of the game.As fans we are sometimes critical of you,but know this,come Saturday every man,woman and child from this great Commonwealth will be standing proud,ready to root you on to a victory.The decision is yours to be made,do you just want to play this honorable game or do you want to be great at it.

GO CATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Game Analysis-Cats VS Dogs

After a dissapointing loss at home to the Georgia Bulldogs,the Cats go on the road to face Mississippi States version. The Bulldogs come into Saturdays game after struggling against UAB but ultimately coming out on top to prevent a let down following thier win at the swamp.Vick Ballard enters into Saturdays matchup leading the offense with 78 carries for 516 yds and 11 TD's.Ballard,(averaging 6.6 yds a carry), like most runningbacks Kentucky has faced, must be salivating at the thought of Kentuckys next to last ranking in the SEC for rushing defense.Kentucky has had a habit of making runningbacks famous,allowing 5 players to exceed the 100 yd rushing mark,and letting several players set school records. If last year is any indication of what Miss States running attack can do to us,then the Cats are in trouble.Last year Anthony Dixon ran for a school record 252 yd game in Commonwealth Stadium. Miss. State will not suprise Kentucky in their game plan.They will run the ball and run it often.In fact Miss. State runs the ball 67% of the time when they have the ball. Against the Gators Miss. State ran the ball 49 times and threw only 9 passes. Miss. State will often choose to run even in obvious passing situations.Coach Mullen does not see anything wrong with punting the football. Why would he? With a defense that is 3rd in the SEC in scoring defense and 6th in rushing defense, the Bulldogs have every reason to believe that they can count on this unit to produce for them. With speedy players like Chris White at LB who is 4th in the league in sacks and 3rd in tackles for loss,and K.J Wright standing strong at 12th in tackles they have every reason to be confident in this group. Manny Diazs "offensive" defense is not something to laugh at. It is absolutely difficult to scheme against.It features rushers coming from every angle.He'll bring pressure off the edge,the middle,and never gets vanilla.He'll throw a three man front at you and then bring 5 right at you.Miss. State will mix it up alot and is not afraid to bring the heat. Lbs,Corners,Safeties it could come from anywhere.Sometimes when I watch this defensive scheme masterfully confuse QB's I get jealous.Watching the game versus Florida it looks as if Chris White is Miss. States version of U.Ks Danny Trevathan. This kid is everywhere,from sideline to sideline. Hes great in thier blitzing scheme and can overwhelm offensive linemen with his speed. This defense is fearless and will test our offensive linemens abilities for 60 minutes.
Offensively the Bulldogs have a mobile QB in Chris Relf who is efficient at executing thier spread option attack alongside Ballard.Although Relf is apparently not the best of passers in the league his numbers arent too terrible,63/114 815 yds 6 TD's 3 INT's,so Kentucky will stil have to be concerned with the threat of a pass and cover those recievers. In the redzone Miss. State has converted 24 of 32 chances with 20 TD's. Not suprisngly 15 of those were rushes and 5 were pass attempts.To say Kentuckys red zone defense has been less than stellar would be an understatement.The Cats have allowed opponents to score 30 out of 31 times in the redzone and is last in the SEC in red zone defense.The Wildcats will have to play 60 minutes of gap sound football if they have any chance of halting the run crazy Bulldogs.Miss. State is 2nd in the league in 3rd down conversions,while Kentucky is 11th in the league in 3rd down conversions for opponents.Penalty wise the two teams are quite similar with UK having 45 for 368 yds while Miss. State has 48 for 383 yds. Miss. State comes is 1st in the SEC in time of posession with a 31:17 average while the Ctas come in at 4th at 30:55. Miss. State will try to manage the time of possession and control the clock.In turnover margins the Cats are +1 to Miss. States +4. Kentucky can not afford to beat itself again.They must take care of the ball like its thier only mission in life.

Keys to the Game

1) Protect Mike.- With Miss. States fearless blitzing packages the Cats offensive line will have thier hands full in trying to protect thier QB. This defense is designed to confuse the opposing teams offense and it does its job well. Our Line will have to be effective in picking up those blitzes and Hartline will need to play smart and make the proper adjustments
2) Avoid turnovers- Another game in which the Cats shoot themselves in the foot by fumbling inside of their side of the 50.This has to be avoided. You simply cannot win football games when you give up costly turnovers
3) Kentucky will have to play 60 minutes of football- Joker Phillips has said that hes curious as to what kind of football team we have,since they have never played 60 minutes in all three phases.The Miss. State game would be a good time to find out.We cannot afford to get in another hole and play catch up.
4) Play gap sound defense and tackle well- Blame Steve Brown all you want(and I often do) you have to admit these guys are losing thier gaps,blowing assignments and executing poorly defensively.The tackling while it has gotten better, has only went from horrendous to poor.UK will have to wrap up the ball carrier and take him to the ground.Fundamentals,fundamentals,fundamentals.
5)Locke needs to be healthy- Say what you want about Locke but Kentucky is just simply a different football team without him in the game. Yes we managed a win against Spurrier(aka Beavis) and his Gamecocks without him,but imagine the improvement once hes back as an offensive weapon.
6) Take advantage of Miss. States secondary.Against UAB the Bulldogs secondary gave up 236 yds through the air and they rank 8th in the league in pass defense. If King cant play,Brian Adams will have to be ready to step up with the loss of Roark.Matthews needs to use his height and length to come down with those balls.Hartline could have another start performance,that is if his protection doesnt fail him.
7)Do not forsake States passing game- While Miss. Sate makes it their buissness to pound the football,they do have a capable QB and recievers. Chad Bumphis leads the WR corps with 33 rec for 461 yds and 4 TD's.As a DB key the run but dont get caught falling asleep.
8) Play with intensity- Theres no doubt these Cats are fighters,having clawed their way back in the Carolina game to beat them and almost succeeding in beating Auburn.But the key is can they take that second half intensity theyve showed us and apply it to the entire game.A unified 60 minute all out effort will undoubtably put a W on the schedule for the Cats