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If the Kentucky Wildcats’ 35-28 win over Missouri wasn’t enough to get your juices flowing, the night also produced a touching moment off the field.
Ray Lewis was in attendance, and the former NFL superstar had a touching moment with Chris Oats.
It’s been reported that while growing up, Lewis was a hero to Oats, so meeting him on Saturday night clearly meant a lot to the Cincinnati native as he continues the battle to regain his mobility.
Lewis’ son, Rahsaan, is a junior wide receiver for the Cats, which promoted his presence in Lexington for the win over the Tigers.
My love for @raylewis just skyrocketed after seeing how he treated @ChristopherOats and his family. Shew. One of the coolest moments I’ve ever witnessed. #crocodiletears #oatsstrong #HeroesDay pic.twitter.com/fctricjEwg
— Slax (@slax0) September 12, 2021
Oats suffered a serious stroke in the spring of 2020 but has remained an integral part of the Kentucky football program.
As you can imagine, getting the type of quality care that he needs and deserves is challenging and extremely expensive.
The #BBN has rallied from across the globe to support the Oats family and contribute anything they can to the cause.
You can help too. There are many ways you can get involved if you’d like. No amount is too small to make a difference.
"We need to all step up and I'll be the first one... Our fanbase is amazing, our people are amazing they just need to know that Chris needs the help... It's bigger than football, this is life." #BBN, please consider supporting Chris Oats & his family at https://t.co/AuxR9Aix6z pic.twitter.com/y4fRKfX7no
— UK Sports Network (@UKSportsNetwork) September 9, 2021
It takes all of us in the Big Blue Nation to step up & contribute#BBN, please consider supporting Chris Oats and his family at https://t.co/cGrL5ZCK79. pic.twitter.com/GuoQqsKXm5
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) September 9, 2021
Another way that the Kentucky football program is honoring Chris Oats is by ensuring his #22 is still roaming the field for each game.
Kentucky players have rotated who wears #22 from week-to-week. This is something really special that I’m glad the guys decided to do.
Chris Oats was and remains a major part of the UK program, and it’s clear that he continues to inspire those around him.
As Kentucky aims to accomplish big things on the field, it’s never a bad thing to get a reminder about what truly matters in life.
Also, big props to Ray Lewis for ensuring that special moment happened last night at Kroger Field.
Giving some tangible meaning to the term #WeAreUK.