A Sea Of Blue - Kentucky vs. NC State in the TaxSlayer Gator BowlOnline Home of the Big Blue Nation: Kentucky Wildcats Sports for the Discerning Fanhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46621/aseaof-fav.png2021-01-15T12:18:10-05:00http://www.aseaofblue.com/rss/stream/219564282021-01-15T12:18:10-05:002021-01-15T12:18:10-05:00Max Duffy and Landon Young named to All-Bowl Team
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<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: JAN 02 TaxSlayer Gator Bowl - NC State v Kentucky" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/A-_bTzJ84aRn26vUFVPlDilFjYk=/0x0:2850x1900/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68673934/1230397975.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The two seniors made a big impact in their final collegiate game. </p> <p id="OH14fE">Senior punter Max Duffy and senior offensive tackle Landon Young have been named to the ESPN All-Bowl Team for their performances in the 23-21 win over No. 23 <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> in the Gator Bowl. Both had previously been named to the AP All-Bowl Team as well.</p>
<p id="FuDGoa">Duffy, a native of Perth, Australia, punted five times in the win, and NC State’s average starting yard line was its own 16. One of those punts saw Duffy avoid disaster after an NC State player shot a gap and was going to block the punt. But at the last moment, Duffy held on to the ball as the player dove past him before getting off a 42-yard punt to the NC State 19. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">PUNTER GOT HIM <a href="https://t.co/6dBHO3L36a">pic.twitter.com/6dBHO3L36a</a></p>— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1345435033977417728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p id="hvndwW">In the fourth quarter, punting each time under the pressure of a one-score game, Duffy also placed a punt that was downed at the NC State 5-yard line, got another to the NC State 13-yard line, and had a 51-yard kick that could only be returned one yard.</p>
<p id="wx1bnz">Young, hailing from of Lexington, Kentucky, graded at 92% with 25 blocks at the point of attack, six knockdown blocks, allowed no quarterback sacks or pressures, and had no missed assignments or penalties.</p>
<p id="vMqXKH">With Kentucky clinging to a 16-14 lead with three minutes remaining in the game, Young’s block opened a gaping hole for Chris Rodriguez’ 26-yard game-clinching touchdown run. The Wildcats finished with 288 rushing yards, averaging 6.1 yards per carry (without three kneel-downs at the end of the game, totals were 291 yards and 6.6 per attempt).</p>
<p id="qPIMrK">Both Duffy and Young have signed with agents as they’re now off to the NFL looking to fulfill their dreams of playing on Sundays. </p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/15/22233048/max-duffy-landon-young-cfb-all-bowl-team-uk-wildcats-newsJason Marcum2021-01-03T14:19:49-05:002021-01-03T14:19:49-05:004 more Wildcats announce plans for 2021
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<img alt="TaxSlayer Gator Bowl - North Carolina State v Kentucky" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/9SDHOGlByBsQeVaMzUsrnjyTmiU=/0x0:2408x1605/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68612917/1294188229.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Cats defense will have plenty of experience returning next season, but they will lose their top pass-rusher. </p> <p id="QSeOoI">Not only will the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> be getting two key members of their offense back in 2021 in Justin Rigg and Josh Ali, but three of their top defenders also announced they’ll return to Lexington in 2021.</p>
<p id="1CTyI7">Inside linebacker DeAndre Square, defensive back Davonte Robinson and defensive end Josh Paschal all took to Twitter to pledge their return to Kentucky for 2021 shortly after defeating North Carolina State in the Gator Bowl Saturday.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’ll see y’all next season <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> <a href="https://t.co/ehz7SUdjws">pic.twitter.com/ehz7SUdjws</a></p>— DeAndre “Shells” Square (@d_square10) <a href="https://twitter.com/d_square10/status/1345558365691387905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2021</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Davonte Robinson back! Another big return for UK as the Lexington native returns <a href="https://t.co/8Vnwe9v8R3">pic.twitter.com/8Vnwe9v8R3</a></p>— Matt Jones (@KySportsRadio) <a href="https://twitter.com/KySportsRadio/status/1345513133494951943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Last one, best one! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> <a href="https://t.co/WOBPaLus8Z">pic.twitter.com/WOBPaLus8Z</a></p>— Joshua Paschal (@JPaschalx) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPaschalx/status/1345778921195753474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2021</a>
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<p id="kBwpkJ">Square returns for his senior season at UK after recording 60 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, forcing a fumble and defending a pass as a junior in 2020.</p>
<p id="Am5Q0Z">Robinson will be a sixth-year senior in 2021 after missing the entire 2019 season with a quad injury. He made 27 total tackles this past season, with two coming for a loss.</p>
<aside id="7BBbzL"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Zach Johnson and Justin Rigg announce they will return to Kentucky","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210794/uk-football-zach-johnson-justin-rigg-kentucky-news"},{"title":"Josh Ali returning for 2021 season","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210688/josh-ali-kentucky-wildcats-football-2021-sec-news-gator-bowl-nc-state"}]}'></div></aside><p id="3yTRim">Paschal will be a fifth-year senior after being held to three games in 2018 after a battle with melanoma. In 2020, he returned to his natural defensive end position after playing outside linebacker in 2019. He recorded 32 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, one sack and grabbed an interception that he returned 76 yards.</p>
<p id="fdWzLH">While Square Robinson and Paschal will all return, it does not appear Jamar “Boogie Watson” will be back in 2021. He took to Twitter to thank the Big Blue Nation for a “helluva ride.”</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">From watching us lose the Taxslayer bowl in 2016 as a redshirt to winning the Taxslayer bowl in the final game of my UK career. Been a helluva ride BBN. Thank you. -31 <a href="https://t.co/ZWsTZTYVUn">pic.twitter.com/ZWsTZTYVUn</a></p>— BOOGIE (@JamarW31) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamarW31/status/1345506520566542337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p id="xmQtH1">If Watson’s time at UK is indeed over, he will finish his college career with 18.5 sacks, 28.5 tackles for loss, six forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one interception. He finished 2020 ranked fourth in the SEC in tackles for loss (10). </p>
<p id="jdUIDY">Mark Stoops has already said fixing UK’s pass rush is a big focus this offseason, and that will be even more challenging with Watson heading out. </p>
<p id="Qb4B3A">UK will now await word on <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> decisions from several key juniors, including All-American offensive tackle Darian Kinnard, 2020 leading rusher Chris Rodriguez Jr., and inside linebacker Jamin Davis, who led the team in tackles.</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/3/22211622/kentucky-wildcats-football-deandre-square-josh-paschal-boogie-watsonAaron Gershon2021-01-03T12:06:12-05:002021-01-03T12:06:12-05:00ESPN 680 Kentucky Football and Basketball Victory Podcasts
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<img alt="NCAA Basketball: Bluegrass Showcase-Morehead State at Kentucky" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/xRZG34xV20jdr-tQSFiidmG3B-s=/1208x113:3029x1327/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68612556/usa_today_15233956.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>It was a fun Saturday as the Wildcats rang in 2021 in a big way.</p> <p id="X3OTip">2020 for <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> football and basketball was nothing short of a disaster. The football team struggled through a 4-6 SEC only season and the basketball team was teetering on the brink of disaster with a 1-6 record.</p>
<p id="GKrojm">Things started on a much better note in 2021 as the Kentucky football team extended it’s bowl winning streak to three in a row as they defeated <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> 23-21 and the basketball Cats won just their second game of the season by beating <a href="https://www.forwhomthecowbelltolls.com">Mississippi State</a> on the road 78-73.</p>
<p id="9lAuhs">The stars of the day were Dontaie Allen, Devin Askew, Olivier Sarr, Jamin Davis, Christopher Rodriguez, and AJ Rose. All six of those guys came up big when their teams needed them the most and in the clutch.</p>
<p id="pDwqY5">I was on the radio after both wins and BBN had a lot of fun for the first time in a long time during the postgame call-in shows. Listen to the podcasts and relive the fun!</p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/3/22211486/espn-680-kentucky-football-basketball-podcastsJames Streble2021-01-03T09:30:00-05:002021-01-03T09:30:00-05:00Postgame notes and celebration from Kentucky’s Gator Bowl win over NC State
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Gator Bowl-North Carolina State vs Kentucky" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sUfz6c5JIG-gl66zN_WtOJOC5sE=/0x0:2269x1513/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68612037/usa_today_15388569.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>UK uses a familiar football scheme to win its third consecutive bowl game.</p> <p id="cOCTDJ">Although not pretty by some standards, the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> did what they do best in their 23-21 victory over North Carolina State in Saturday’s TaxSlayer Gator Bowl in Jacksonville.</p>
<p id="Ltgtn0">The tried and true formula of timely defense, power running, and solid special teams- the staples of Kentucky football under coach Mark Stoops- were enough for the Cats to end their 2020 season on a high note and give the program momentum going into 2021.</p>
<p id="FGcs5f">Interestingly, the Cats method for success isn’t something foreign to the ACC or the 23rd ranked Wolfpack. </p>
<p id="qe3kKF">For many years, ACC power <a href="https://www.gobblercountry.com/">Virginia Tech</a> and its Hall of Fame coaching legend Frank Beamer used those three standards to build their program from an afterthought to success and earned the tag “Beamer Ball.”</p>
<p id="fqK8iG">The Cats (5-6) applied “Beamer Ball” first through its defense, showcasing a stout rushing defense by limiting the Pack (8-4) to 50 net rushing yards and forcing three Bailey Hockman interceptions by Brandin Echols, Jamin Davis, and Yusuf Corker. </p>
<p id="KNofnZ">The UK run game overpowered the <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> defense, rushing for 281 yards behind big games from running backs AJ Rose (149 yards), Chris Rodriguez (87 yards and 2 touchdowns), and Kavosiey Smoke (47 yards). </p>
<p id="7DAPua">The UK special teams also played a major role in the win. Senior kicker Matt Ruffalo went 3-3 on field goals, while All-American punter Max Duffy averaged 40.4 yards per punt with a long of 51 yards. </p>
<p id="3ZMN4J">With new offensive coordinator Liam Coen coming next season, it will be interesting to see how much the Cats hold to the run-heavy mentality. To make the next step of improving offensive balance, the Cats must have a passing game component. </p>
<p id="J3Unni">Coen will bring with him a lot of play-action concepts to get the receivers, particularly the tight ends, involved.</p>
<p id="v3fglj">But for one more game, the Cats were old-school and got the job done.</p>
<p id="cCehUw">Coach Beamer would be proud.</p>
<p id="TG1BAh">Here’s a look at the postgame celebration following the Gator Bowl triumph. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great Team Win, Love these young Men!!! Go Cats, Gator Bowl Champs!!! <a href="https://t.co/os9Np2yWZa">pic.twitter.com/os9Np2yWZa</a></p>— Anwar Stewart (@Bigstew9) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bigstew9/status/1345483333761949702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’m very proud of how these players battled against and overcame adversity many times during the season. They kept together and kept playing. I love each and everyone of them. This win is for Coach Schlarman and Chris Oats! Thank you, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> for being with us all the way. <a href="https://t.co/OFpgpOCPtv">https://t.co/OFpgpOCPtv</a></p>— Mark Stoops (@UKCoachStoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKCoachStoops/status/1345506381571518464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Come see about this <a href="https://twitter.com/taxslayerbowl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TaxSlayerBowl</a> winning locker room celebration <a href="https://t.co/c2xqlJskyn">pic.twitter.com/c2xqlJskyn</a></p>— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKFootball/status/1345499649793118209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p id="EUas21">You love to see it. </p>
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<p id="B2rwyq">Below are the game notes, courtesy of UK Athletics.</p>
<p id="2hX99l"><strong>Team Records and Series Information</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="hZ4w75">Kentucky completes the season 5-6 and North Carolina State is 84..</li>
<li id="YSaEQY">Kentucky leads the series 2-1.</li>
<li id="lc8AIY">This is the first time the teams have played in a bowl game.</li>
</ul>
<p id="IpQD3u"> </p>
<p id="c1xpfV"><strong>Notes on the Win</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="WZR3Sd">Kentucky is now 11-9 in bowl games (.550), including 1-1 in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl.</li>
<li id="S8SQ7A">UK is 5-3 vs. Atlantic Coast Conference teams in bowl games, including 1-0 vs. NC State, North Carolina <a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/">Florida State</a> and Virginia Tech, 1-2 vs. Clemson and 0-1 vs. <a href="https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com">Georgia Tech</a>.</li>
<li id="NlyvBt">This was UKs third-consecutive bowl win, including the VRBO Citrus Bowl on Jan. 1, 2019, and the 2019 Belk Bowl. That ties the school record of three straight bowl wins in the 2006 and ’07 Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowls and the 2009 AutoZone Liberty Bowl following the ’08 season.</li>
<li id="GYdBB5">UK has won 11 consecutive non-conference games over the last three seasons.</li>
<li id="yEO28r">This was UK’s second win over a ranked opponent this season, also vs. then-No. 18 Tennessee, both of which were away from home.</li>
<li id="Hs7WeC">It is the first time UK has defeated two ranked opponents in the same season since 2018, when the Wildcats knocked off No. 25 Florida, No. 14 <a href="https://www.forwhomthecowbelltolls.com">Mississippi State</a> and No. 12 Penn State.</li>
<li id="EkK4AW">It is the first time UK has defeated two ranked opponents away from home in the same season since 2018, when the Cats won at No. 25 Florida and in the Citrus Bowl vs. No. 12 Penn State.</li>
</ul>
<p id="nS9hLC"><strong> </strong></p>
<p id="NBnPCV"><strong>Team Notes</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="0DIsC2">This was UK’s fifth-consecutive bowl appearance, tying the school record set in the 2006-10 seasons.</li>
<li id="AmlI3b">Mark Stoops becomes UK’s first head coach to take a team to five straight bowl games. The previous record was by Rich Brooks in his last four seasons, 2006-09.</li>
<li id="sKH70o">This was Mark Stoops’ 99th game as head coach at Kentucky, one short of the school record of 100 games coached by Fran Curci from 1973-81.</li>
<li id="u0LNjs">This was Stoops’ 49th win at Kentucky, second behind Paul “Bear” Bryant, who had 60 victories from 1946-53.</li>
<li id="96PPzX">Turnovers tell the tale: UK won the turnover battle 3-0 today and scored 10 points off turnovers.</li>
<li id="ABkXGS">In the five victories this season, UK was +15 in turnover margin; in the six losses, UK was -5 in turnover margin.</li>
<li id="VTQ7q4">Since 2016, UK is 15-7 in games decided by seven points or less, including 2-1 this season.</li>
<li id="3mpGAi">UK made three field goals, breaking the school bowl record of two FGs in six previous bowl games.</li>
</ul>
<p id="mDA123"> </p>
<p id="whW33B"><strong>Accomplishments of the Senior Class</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="dvqa8Q">For players who are fifth-year seniors (since 2016), they have …</li>
<li id="3eUka0">Won 37 games (most in a five-season span since 1949-53)</li>
<li id="FF8yKt">Gone to five straight bowl games, tying the school record</li>
<li id="xuI0yL">Won 20 SEC games, most in a five-year span in school history</li>
<li id="Qmb7f2">Posted first 10-win season and winning SEC record since 1977 and first final ranking sine 1984 (2018 season)</li>
<li id="rUtTBV">Won a Citrus Bowl, Belk Bowl and Gator Bowl</li>
<li id="Pl9SfT">Notched victories over six ranked opponents</li>
<li id="dtGc5K">Won their regular-season finale for the third-straight year, the first time that has happened in 61 years, 1957-59</li>
<li id="UIEXFR">Won three Senior Day games in a row for the first time since 2010-12</li>
<li id="dOmrmj">Ended the 31-game losing streak to Florida</li>
<li id="jsbyfy">Won at Tennessee for the first time since 1984.</li>
</ul>
<p id="df5ExJ"><strong> </strong></p>
<p id="1yJj7J"><strong>Player Notes</strong></p>
<p id="bJ7NSl">· Senior quarterback <strong>Terry Wilson </strong>completed 12 of 20 passes for 99 yards. He also rushed six times for a net 14 yards.</p>
<p id="fKs5aD">· Wilson career notes …</p>
<ul>
<li id="Yle4E6">17-8 as the UK starting quarterback.</li>
<li id="eecqdn">First player in school history with at least 3,000 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards.</li>
<li id="l4HvY0">Has a career completion percentage of 64.9 (337 of 5199), third in school history. </li>
<li id="DGvsGb">Has 4,458 career yards total offense, eighth place on the UK career list.</li>
<li id="YPMujI">Joined Derrick Ramsey as the only starting QBs in UK history to win at Florida and Tennessee.</li>
</ul>
<p id="sPrCAr">· Senior running back <strong>A.J. Rose </strong>rushed 12 times for a career-high 148 yards, his third 100-yard game of the season seventh 100-yard game of his career.</p>
<ul><li id="noDFxY">Rose now has 1,971 career rushing yards, 10th place in school history.</li></ul>
<p id="nqn5yQ">· Sophomore running back <strong>Chris Rodriguez Jr. </strong>carried the ball 17 times for 84 yards, including both of UK’s touchdowns.</p>
<ul><li id="2MTdRr">He has 1,365 career rushing yards, moving into 27th place in school history.</li></ul>
<p id="j11wYC">· Senior wide receiver <strong>Josh Ali</strong> led the team in receptions with four catches for 18 yards.</p>
<p id="Ce6NAb">· Junior linebacker <strong>Jamin Davis </strong>made 13 tackles, his eighth double-figure game of the season, and one-half quarterback sack.</p>
<ul><li id="X0b83p">He had an interception and five-yard return in the fourth quarter, setting up the game-clinching touchdown. It is his third interception of the season and fifth of his career.</li></ul>
<p id="abaBwx">· Senior cornerback <strong>Brandin Echols </strong>made his first career interception on N.C. State’s first possession and returned it eight yards to midfield. He also made seven tackles during the game.</p>
<p id="RreIEC">· Junior safety <strong>Yusuf Corker </strong>picked off a pass in the fourth quarter, his second of the season, occurring in consecutive games. He also had five tackles.</p>
<p id="8hF0iK">· Junior safety <strong>Tyrell Ajian </strong>blocked a field goal attempt in the second quarter, the first blocked kick of his career.</p>
<ul>
<li id="V2G018">It is UK’s second blocked field goal of the season, also Jamin Davis vs. Georgia.</li>
<li id="SN9IzF">He also made a career-high seven tackles.</li>
</ul>
<p id="Su6M6Y">· Junior linebacker <strong>Jordan Wright </strong>made five tackles, including a 12-yard sack, and caused a fumble.</p>
<p id="2mAt3j">· Senior linebacker <strong>Boogie Watson </strong>had four tackles, including a tackle for loss.</p>
<ul><li id="pRLcsE">He has 28.5 tackles for loss in his career.</li></ul>
<p id="2HVXj0">· True freshman cornerback <strong>Carrington Valentine </strong>made his first collegiate start at cornerback. He made six tackles and caused a fumble.</p>
<p id="OMjPOR">· Senior kicker <strong>Matt Ruffolo </strong>set a UK bowl record with three field goals, from 25, 26 and 20 yards.</p>
<p id="9kkTe0">· Senior center <strong>Drake Jackson </strong>started his 44th consecutive game today, the third-longest streak in school history with starting lineups available since 1993.</p>
<p id="cTXhwG">o Jackson was today’s team captain and wore jersey No. 65 in honor of offensive line coach John Schlarman, who died Nov. 12.</p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/3/22210765/kentucky-football-postgame-notes-gator-bowl-win-nc-state-wolfpackShane Shackleford2021-01-02T21:59:36-05:002021-01-02T21:59:36-05:00Mark Stoops and Wildcats recap Gator Bowl victory over No. 23 NC State
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<p>Make it three-straight bowl wins for Mark Stoops.</p> <p id="J0q9TH">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> once again have kicked off their New Year in style, winning their third consecutive bowl game under head coach Mark Stoops. </p>
<p id="Z6Qw2M">The Wildcats narrowly edged No. 23 <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> in a 23-21 boxing match Saturday. After jumping out to a 13-0 lead in the first half, the rushing attack was explosive, and Kentucky’s defense was dialed in.</p>
<p id="bpn4Pp">Following the midway point, the Wolfpack respectfully put together a 14-3 scoring stretch to make it 16-14. Wildcats running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. returned the favor by breaking away late for a 26-yard score and ultimately put the game away. </p>
<p id="QsiBYV">NC State would score another touchdown with less than two minutes left to at least force an onside kick, but Kentucky’s special teams sealed the deal on the recovery.</p>
<p id="u3fFNn">From a tight defense, AJ Rose breaking lose on every carry (148 rushing yards) and Rodriguez finding the end zone twice, the Wildcats will return to Lexington and end their year on a high note.</p>
<p id="1lCpHo">While 2020 was full of memories to forget, the perseverance of Kentucky to come in and knock off a top-25 team for their bowl victory is an extraordinary way to start 2021. Here’s what Stoops and his Wildcats had to say following the win.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Live Now: Coach Stoops, and Players - TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Press Conference <a href="https://t.co/MFls0cGh0F">https://t.co/MFls0cGh0F</a></p>— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKFootball/status/1345476057743249408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p id="DkgOdr"><strong>Mark Stoops</strong></p>
<p id="Nh68Jz"></p>
<p id="5wd869"> </p>
<p id="b35ylU">(On how proud he is Kentucky held on during a rocky second half to win the game) “Well, very proud of our football team. I think there were a few critical plays in there where we had a chance to take it to another level, or, I wouldn’t put it away, but make us feel a lot better about it. I think the penalty at the end of first half, where we settled for a field goal when we actually threw a nice fade for a touchdown and our tight end lined up off the ball, but that’s on us. We actually should have gone right back to the call the play I had before with the same formation. But really proud of our team, proud of our coaches. People don’t realize it, but it’s a pretty big deal when you’re down three of your full-time offensive coaches. And really proud of (associate head coach/tight ends/recruiting coordinator/NFL liaison) Vince Marrow, (assistant coach – wide receivers) Coach (Javon) Bouknight, (quality control coaches) Mark Perry, Josh Estes-Waugh, Cody Lasita, Maxwell Smith, guys really stepped up, did a really good job, some young coaches, to go win a bowl game. To win the Gator Bowl with two of your full-time coaches and a bunch of analysts and graduate assistants, guys that stepped up and really did a good job. Proud of them. Proud of our seniors; led us to three straight bowl victories. That’s a really big accomplishment and I greatly appreciate all of our players. All of them, once again, really wanted to be here, played a good game. I’m disappointed with some of the things that went on during the game. We’ve got to get cleaned up. Some of that, I’ve got to look at it. It was hard to tell, but some of that unsportsmanlike conduct penalties, I’ve got to get cleaned up and I will. That’s not us, we’re not going to accept that. I’m not going to get into touchy or not or whatever, I really couldn’t tell. But these were clearly not officials we’re used to, but that also is on me and it’s on us and we’ll get that addressed. When you’re in these bowl games, you’re not used to certain officials, and I’ve got to do a better job preparing us for that.”</p>
<p id="PWw6f4"> </p>
<p id="Xypfdp">(On how important it was to close the season with a happy moment and celebration) “I think it’s very important. You know, again, it’s been well-documented, the investment, and it’s also been well-documented, the toll that it’s taken on all players across the country. And to once again see our players step up and want to do that and travel back and forth during their break after, really, being mentally exhausted and still laying it on the line all the way through to the fourth quarter, says an awful lot. We talked about it in chapel last night, about finishing – Aaron Hoge always does a remarkable job – and I talked about it this morning and I addressed it, one of the last things I said when we left the field was recognizing (linebacker) Chris Oats and (late Kentucky assistant coach) John Schlarman and having their memories in our mind today and wishing they were with us. A very emotional year, but great to cap it off with a big victory.”</p>
<p id="paZVSj"> </p>
<p id="bEw2kZ">(On what kept him from putting in quarterbacks Joey Gatewood or Beau Allen) “Yeah, I wanted to and I probably should have, to be honest with you. I have great confidence in (quarterback) Terry (Wilson) and he did pull out the victory, but it was also important to get the win. I’ve seen Terry rally us back many times before, but I wish I had got them (Gatewood and Allen) in, Mike, to be honest with you, but I didn’t. Fortunately, we came out with a victory.”</p>
<p id="O5wQ9S"> </p>
<p id="Up7gT0">(On running back Asim “A.J.” Rose ending his career at Kentucky with a great game) “It was really big and I was really happy for him. I’m really proud of A.J. Just like a lot of our players, if you’re around here for four years, for five years, you’re going to go through some ups and some downs. He certainly has, but he’s been there. He’s been consistent, he has a wonderful family (and) he was the MVP of the game this afternoon. (I’m) just really happy for him, really proud of him. He’s been here for a long time and he’s helped us win a lot of games. Again, you’re going to get criticism, you’re going to get people coming at you and talking about other people, but he just kind of always stuck to himself and worried about his game and his self, and happy that he went out that way.”</p>
<p id="tC6tRF"> </p>
<p id="rQHzai">(On the graduate assistants and other assistants who can be credited with coming up with Kentucky’s offensive game plan) “Yeah, the guys that were promoted to full-time are, again, Mark Perry, Josh Estes-Waugh, Cody Lasita were all promoted and were full-time roles for this game. Maxwell Smith has been a graduate assistant for us and all those guys really contributed and really worked hard leading up to the game. It was a group effort, and again, Vince (Marrow) and Coach Bouknight did a great job. (I’m) just proud of the whole group. It’s not easy; you’re down three full-time coaches and your two primary play callers, so a very different situation and I’m glad that we put it together.”</p>
<p id="BbVsFz"> </p>
<p id="O7POoM">(On if today was a statement game for linebacker Jamin Davis) “I think every opportunity, every time Jamin steps on the field, he’s getting better. He and I had a good talk last night, and I appreciate the way he went out and played today. He’s getting better with every rep and every opportunity and it doesn’t surprise me. But I will say, from the sideline to the far sideline, I noticed him showing up several plays. Certainly it looked like he played a very good game. I’ll have to go look at the tape.”</p>
<p id="6ja9qU"> </p>
<p id="D6XWOv">(On how he sees Kentucky’s passing offense evolving in the next year or two) “We’re going to say goodbye to 2020 today. It’s onto the future. I really greatly appreciate the win, but also very excited about the future of Kentucky football. We’ll address that when I get back in January. I need a few days off.”</p>
<p id="jyWgaX"> </p>
<p id="ldOUno">(On the play of punter Max Duffy and him eluding an NC State player to get a punt off) “Yeah, that’s a great point. Field position was such a huge deal in this game. What he did on the punt, when I was watching it live, I’ll have to look at it, (it was) really a big-time play. It just goes to show you how savvy he is and how talented he is. Definitely we’re grateful for his background of Aussie football right there on that play because to have the confidence in that to elude the rush and then punt it the way he did, he’s just a talented guy. He really is. He’s got more tricks up his sleeve too. I wish we had him for more years, but like I said before, we’re grateful bringing in another Aussie.”</p>
<p id="nl0wFv"> </p>
<p id="JyuOvZ">(On the play of safety Vito Tisdale and defensive back Carrington Valentine) “Vito was really looking good towards the end of the season and bowl prep and then he got a little injury, a hamstring injury, that I was really pleased that he was able to play. He missed the last three practices, I believe, with that hamstring. But he’s out there, he’s a fun guy. I like the way he plays. He brings some energy and some juice and he did a good job. And then Carrington, we have high hopes for him, we really do. I think he’s going to be a really good player. I thought he did a good job today. He was a little passive at times, keeping things in front of him, but that’s okay. We can work with that and get him tightened up. He’s also good at press, and just overall, really pleased with him.”</p>
<p id="sg5BF5"> </p>
<p id="YeEClE">(On the assets of Carrington Valentine and what he’s going to bring to the program in the future) “Carrington, he’s got some length and you know the biggest thing he’s going to bring is he’s a competitor. That’s what I like about him. He’s not afraid to get up and play tighter. Again, some of the calls today, he was off, but later, when he rolled up in press, he’s a competitive guy.”</p>
<p id="vkNmsN"><strong>Jamin Davis</strong></p>
<p id="hgDDj9"> </p>
<p id="bxgYf1">(On if he saw this game as a validation since he didn’t make the All-SEC Team) </p>
<p id="211sT6">“Just all season I already was playing with a chip on my shoulder, I didn’t look at this one any different. I just wanted to come out and play for 22 and ball out and do what I could.”</p>
<p id="FIxjHM"> </p>
<p id="pCJcIi">(On why he thought it got so emotional between the two teams) </p>
<p id="55Jvha">“I mean, both teams just fighting for that trophy. It’s always going to get chippy when there’s something to lose. We’ve just got to bounce back and everybody’s got to keep their composure, I guess.”</p>
<p id="YnsaWW"> </p>
<p id="NrKTnY">(On what was going through his mind before the last series) </p>
<p id="B9QTLp">“Honestly, in the back of my mind, we just wanted to refuse to lose the game. We just wanted to keep our backs against the wall and don’t let nobody take it from us. That’s been the same thing we’ve been preached to all year – if the ball’s in the air, it’s our ball – so that’s my main mindset is keep playing and ice the game.”</p>
<p id="sUU49D"> </p>
<p id="G1Eti8">(On what did it mean to end such an emotional season on a high note and what it can do for the program moving forward) </p>
<p id="082YN5">“Definitely. It was extremely emotional. Even walking into the locker room, we were saying, ‘That was for 22, that was for [John] Schlarman.’ It’s definitely something to show to the younger guys, that we keep playing through all the adversity, whatever’s going around us, all the outside noise, block it out and keep playing. We know what we go through on a daily basis to put in the work and we’ve got to keep going, regardless.”</p>
<p id="rGjdJK"> </p>
<p id="7jOJzB">(On if he’s made a decision whether he’s coming back next year) </p>
<p id="LbDkSb">“Honestly, I’m just trying to enjoy the bowl win. I’m not really worried about anything else right now. I’m just trying to go and enjoy everything with my teammates.”</p>
<p id="kGNpbH"> </p>
<p id="FHpHfd">(On who impressed him on his defense today) </p>
<p id="8EmPdP">“I can’t single out anybody. Everybody didn’t back down. All 11 guys, we did what we could, we tried to keep playing to make sure, like I said before, that in the back of our mind we refused to lose the game, regardless. Of course, we had a bunch of, I guess you could call it mess-ups here and there, but at the end of the day we’re just going to keep playing, stay together and just play to the next play.”</p>
<p id="QMjibr"> </p>
<p id="ON4jeL">(On what the locker room was like and what did Coach Stoops say to the team after the game) </p>
<p id="S0NQM7">“Like I said before, it was really emotional because everybody knows it’s been a pretty rough season for us. We’ve had our ups and downs, Chris [Oats], Coach Schlarman, everything, so it’s definitely something for the younger guys to keep going basically moving forward.”</p>
<p id="mF6ssE"> </p>
<p id="hZ7vqY">(On if he heard anything from NC State players regarding ACC vs. SEC and pride in their conferences) </p>
<p id="H9039t">“Honestly, I don’t really pay any attention to any outside noise, and I’m pretty sure the rest of us don’t either. Like I said before, it’s always going to get emotional when you have a lot to lose, so of course you’ll have a bunch of unsportsmanlike conduct penalties here and there, but at the end of the day I didn’t really pay any attention to anything being said or whatever, just made sure I got my guys’ backs and to prepare for the next play.”</p>
<p id="P3srjX"> </p>
<p id="4yGKFX">(On what did the coaches say to the team when things were getting out of control on the Kentucky sideline) </p>
<p id="VwwyXn">“Basically to keep our composure and go out there and play our game, do what we got to do and get back to the sideline, that’s all that needs to be said. We just let our play do the talking.”</p>
<p id="fyD0p9"><strong>AJ Rose</strong></p>
<p id="sfuIRa">(On potentially ending his career at Kentucky with a win and what he thought it brought to the memory of the late Kentucky assistant coach John Schlarman) </p>
<p id="1OVRaJ">“John was definitely looking down on us. Coach Schlar definitely inspired us all. It was a great way to end, if this was my last game. I’m definitely blessed to be here and participate in this bowl game again. My first bowl game (was) here, we lost, but it was a different outcome this time. (The) offensive line did a great job today. They was moving people all around all day. Give credit to all five of those guys.”</p>
<p id="tN8nvy"> </p>
<p id="Zgk3bN">(On how much it helped Kentucky’s offense with the team’s defense setting them up with great field position throughout the game) </p>
<p id="fknmu6">“That was big-time. The defense came away with a couple steals, a couple interceptions that put us in great field position. We capitalized at those times and credit to the defense and those guys who caught those interceptions and put us in a great position to score the football.”</p>
<p id="kFwq1g"> </p>
<p id="EirGoc">(On if he was surprised on how chippy the game got, especially towards the end of the second half) </p>
<p id="oESIGl">“It was surprising, but it was chippy throughout the whole game. It was an emotional football game. Both teams wanted to be here, both teams wanted to win. Unfortunately some flags were thrown and (there were) a couple penalties here and there, but throughout it all, we still managed to come out with a win and that’s all that matters.”</p>
<p id="9UlcDH"> </p>
<p id="EZE94l">(On if he can finally exhale now that the season is over and what that feeling is like) </p>
<p id="E4LXXH">“It feels great. I mean, it’s unfortunate that the season’s over, but it feels good to end on that win, how we did, getting that bowl win for this community and for the school. It’s been a long year, a tough year with most of these COVID restrictions and everything that’s going around, but I feel like we managed it and we did a great job keeping players safe and keeping everyone that was around us safe.”</p>
<p id="lC3K3I"> </p>
<p id="f5x4Mn">(On, as someone who has been at Kentucky for the entirety of its bowl streak, what it says about the team and program that their season didn’t fall apart when everything seemed to be going wrong in the middle of the season) </p>
<p id="n8lI2I">“It just shows the type of guys that get recruited here. They come here and they stick to the program and they stick to where this program wanted to go. Five straight bowl games since I’ve been here, it’s only been on the up. I feel like Coach Stoops has done an amazing job. The whole coaching staff (is) recruiting players that want to go here and just want to contribute to this team. I feel like, throughout it all, this was a great win and I’m ecstatic right now. I can’t even put it into words.”</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210625/mark-stoops-uk-wildcats-recap-gator-bowl-nc-state-2021John Morgan Francis2021-01-02T21:27:53-05:002021-01-02T21:27:53-05:00Zach Johnson and Justin Rigg announce they will return to Kentucky
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<p>The Cats are getting several key players back for 2021.</p> <p id="HRxxfr">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> won the Gator Bowl on Saturday with a 23-21 win <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">over the NC State</a><a href="https://www.backingthepack.com"> Wolfpack</a>. </p>
<p id="N4M7J8">Due to the coronavirus, this was basically a f<a href="https://www.backingthepack.com">ree season for fa</a>ll and winter sports, meaning that seniors could return next season if they wanted to. </p>
<p id="sFN5jD">After the game, the Cats started getting the news of some key players that are coming back for another season. </p>
<p id="YFpa2u">The first to do so was Josh Ali, who was the Cats’ leading receiver this season and will be a huge boost to the brand-new offense under Liam Coen in 2021.</p>
<p id="OQ4frq">The second announcement was from special teams star Zach Johnson.</p>
<p id="ZqNhQD">“Big Blue Nation, after much thought and consideration with my family and coaches, I’ve decided that my time here at the University of Kentucky isn’t over,” Johnson announced. “I’m coming back to pursue my Master’s degree and represent this great university on the field I’m blessed to have this opportunity and look forward to bettering myself and going to war with my team for another year.”</p>
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<p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> <a href="https://t.co/IWnB293tbI">pic.twitter.com/IWnB293tbI</a></p>— Zach Johnson (@_zachjohnson_3) <a href="https://twitter.com/_zachjohnson_3/status/1345492973639897089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p id="B0zjY1">Johnson has been one of Kentucky’s top players on special teams, as he’s handled kickoff returns while also being one of the top tacklers on coverage units. </p>
<p id="FEtmg1">Soon after Johnson announced his return, the Cats got another key player back for 2021, as tight end Justin Rigg announced he would be back as well. </p>
<p id="GyhRAU">“After many discussions with my family and coaches, I have decided to return to the Kentucky football team for the 2021 season,” Rigg announced. “I look forward to having another year with this great team. I am very honored to have been welcomed back and am excited for the future to come.” </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Don’t count me out just yet <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> <a href="https://t.co/jNOV8AlQzg">pic.twitter.com/jNOV8AlQzg</a></p>— Justin Rigg (@justinrigg83) <a href="https://twitter.com/justinrigg83/status/1345493484665503744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p id="DDqP1g">Over the last two seasons, Rigg has caught 22 passes for 265 yards and one score, which came in the 38-35 win over Vanderbilt. He’s mainly a blocker who’s helped Kentucky’s rushing attack be one of the best in the SEC over the last two years, so getting him back is great news for the ground game. </p>
<p id="BasoAJ">The football future is very bright in Lexington and I know the BBN is ready for what is next as we look towards the 2021 season. </p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210794/uk-football-zach-johnson-justin-rigg-kentucky-newsAdam Haste2021-01-02T17:01:09-05:002021-01-02T17:01:09-05:00WATCH Kentucky’s Brandin Echols hilariously flops, gets resuscitated by teammate
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<p>Even the commentators found some human in it, joking that Echols had been watching soccer.</p> <p id="q7I320">The 4-6 <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> were gifted a spot in the TaxSlayer Gator bowl, and they made the most of it with a wild win over a top-25 <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com">NC State Wolfpack</a> squad. </p>
<p id="AJZVe3">Held in Jacksonville (FL), the game was decided by a difference of three turnovers as the Wildcats forced a trio of them while not committing a single one. Kentucky ended up winning the game 23-21 after entering halftime up 13-0. </p>
<aside id="nAIvHy"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Josh Ali returning for 2021 season","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210688/josh-ali-kentucky-wildcats-football-2021-sec-news-gator-bowl-nc-state"},{"title":"Highlights, box score & MVP from Wildcats beating NC State to win Gator Bowl","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210358/kentucky-wildcats-highlights-box-score-mvp-nc-state-gator-bowl-ncaa-football"}]}'></div></aside><p id="HaWr2h">That said, although the Wildcats won, the play of the game might have been star cornerback Brandin Echols’ hilarious flop. Echols was shoved by a <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> player and stayed on the ground, even being fake resuscitated by his teammate. </p>
<p id="clVxF3">Here’s the video of the flop and following drama.</p>
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<p id="9c7eqt">The 5-11 defensive back ended the game with seven tackles, only one being a solo tackle. That ranked him third on the team to end the bowl game. He was behind Jamin Davis, the only player for the Wildcats in double-figure tackles, and Tyrell Ajian. </p>
<p id="lWtUK3">Echols, a senior, very likely played his last down as a Cat. Though the NCAA is giving everyone an extra year of eligibility, it appears Echols is ready to enter the NFL, where he may hear his name called as a late-round draft pick in 2021. </p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210695/brandin-echols-flop-college-football-news-highlights-uk-wildcatsNathanBeighle2021-01-02T16:45:08-05:002021-01-02T16:45:08-05:00Josh Ali returning for 2021 season
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<figcaption>Jason Marcum - Sea of Blue</figcaption>
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<p>Huge news for Kentucky’s offense. </p> <p id="e5W0dA">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> football program is having a heck of a day in Jacksonville.</p>
<p id="6fj9kZ">Not only did the Cats beat <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> to win the Gator Bowl, but they got a key offensive player back for the 2021 season.</p>
<p id="BEiN4r">Shortly after the 23-21 win over the Wolfpack, wide receiver Josh Ali announced he’s returning next season.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’m coming back <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> !!! <a href="https://t.co/4lzBnWsllv">pic.twitter.com/4lzBnWsllv</a></p>— Josh Ali (@_JoshAli6) <a href="https://twitter.com/_JoshAli6/status/1345482821251563520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a>
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<p id="zNrxD8">A true senior in 2020, Ali will use the NCAA eligibility relief ruling to get an extra season. He’ll be a fifth-year senior in 2021. He finished the Gator Bowl with four grabs for 18 yards, giving him 53 grabs for 480 yards and one score this season. He famously caught the game-winning touchdown in Kentucky’s Belk Bowl win over Virginia Tech last season. </p>
<aside id="aHi4ES"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Highlights, box score & MVP from Wildcats beating NC State to win Gator Bowl","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210358/kentucky-wildcats-highlights-box-score-mvp-nc-state-gator-bowl-ncaa-football"},{"title":"Twitter reactions to Kentucky’s Gator Bowl win over NC State","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210352/uk-football-twitter-kentucky-gator-bowl-nc-state-wolfpack-vince-marrow"}]}'></div></aside><p id="1Ervua">Most of Kentucky’s seniors are expected to depart for their post-college football careers, but there will be a few who choose to use an extra year of eligibility to return in 2021. Ali was easily one of the most important, so getting him back is great news for Kentucky’s offense as it looks to take the next step forward under new offensive coordinator Liam Coen, which could help Ali have a big 2021 season that puts him on NFL teams’ radars. </p>
<p id="m0XcGt">Go Cats! </p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/1/2/22210688/josh-ali-kentucky-wildcats-football-2021-sec-news-gator-bowl-nc-stateJason Marcum