ESPN reported Monday that graduate transfer Zach Calzada will start at quarterback for the Kentucky Wildcats
in their Week 1 matchup against Toledo. Kentucky has since confirmed the news by releasing its Week 1 depth chart, which has Calzada as QB1, while Cutter Boley is the backup.
Calzada, who arrives in Lexington after two prolific seasons at Incarnate Word, will bring with him a lot of experience. He has played in 38 career games with 32 starts across stops at Texas A&M, Auburn, and UIW. During
his two seasons at UIW, he passed for over 6,100 yards and 53 touchdowns, earning Southland Conference Player of the Year honors in 2024.
Wildcat fans may also remember Calzada’s breakout performance in 2021 at Texas A&M, when he led the Aggies to an upset win over No. 1 Alabama. That toughness and composure are traits Stoops believes will benefit Kentucky’s offense this fall.
Calzada’s career numbers speak to both consistency and productivity: 8,707 passing yards, 73 touchdowns, and 11 rushing scores. His leadership will be tested immediately as Kentucky tries to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 campaign.
Boley, a redshirt freshman and in-state product, impressed coaches throughout camp with his arm talent and poise but ultimately came up short in his bid for the starting role. However, Boley could still see game reps this season or even become the starting quarterback later on, much like last year.
For Calzada, this season is more than just another chapter; it’s his final shot to prove he can succeed in the SEC. After stops at Texas A&M and Auburn, the veteran quarterback arrives in Lexington with one last opportunity to show he belongs on college football’s biggest stage.
