After opening the season with a 1-0 start following a hard-fought win over Toledo, Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops met with reporters Monday to break down what he saw on film and what lies ahead as the Wildcats prepare for a tough SEC matchup against Ole Miss this Saturday at Kroger Field.
Stoops opened his press conference happy about the win but acknowledged plenty of work remains. Stoops was pleased with the toughness and discipline his team showed, improvements are needed, particularly in ball
security and finishing explosive plays.
Offensive Takeaways: Zach Calzada, Cutter Boley, and Offensive Rhythm
A significant focus of Monday’s discussion was the quarterback play. Zach Calzada, making his first Kentucky start, showed flashes of promise but also struggled with consistency, including an interception, a safety, and then Willie Rodriguez also had a fumble during the three consecutive drives.
Stoops acknowledged that Calzada was “really pressing” at times but reiterated confidence in his veteran quarterback. “We still have a lot of confidence in Zach, and we have confidence in Cutter [Boley]. It would have been premature to pull the plug right there,” Stoops said.
Looking ahead, the coaching staff plans to simplify reads for Calzada and provide more “layup throws” to help him settle into a rhythm. Stoops also emphasized his desire to run more plays, move the ball faster, and get more players touches.
Wide receiver Hardley Gilmore drew extra attention in the Toledo game, with six targets compared to three for other receivers. Stoops attributed that to reads and opportunities rather than design, but he also wants other players to get more touches and to also be able to get off more plays during the game. The offensive line earned praise for allowing no sacks, while Stoops noted there’s still room for improvement for the offensive line with the run-block and short-yardage situations.
Defensive Notes: Strong Start, Key Adjustments
Defensively, Stoops was pleased with Kentucky’s effort. Critical fourth-down stops and a timely interception helped secure the win, and Stoops praised the depth and physicality of his defensive unit. Standout performances included defensive back Alex Afari, while defensive lineman Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace was injured during the game and Stoops says he is listed as day-to-day.
Looking Ahead: Ole Miss Challenge
Kentucky now shifts focus to Lane Kiffin’s Ole Miss Rebels, known for their fast tempo and explosive offense. Stoops called them “electric on both sides of the ball” and said slowing down quarterback Austin Simmons will be a top priority.
No updates were provided on running back Jamarion Wilcox, leaving his status uncertain heading into the game.
Stoops closed the press conference by urging fans to pack Kroger Field, like they did against Toledo for the home opener.
Kentucky and Ole Miss kick off Saturday afternoon at 3:30 PM ET on ABC in a critical early-season SEC showdown, with both teams looking to have a statement win.
