The Will Stein era of Kentucky football kicked off on Saturday with a 45-13 victory over Youngstown State. The Wildcats rolled up 506 yards of total offense in the win, with Kenny Minchey throwing for 301 yards and 4 touchdowns.
On the other side of the ball, things didn't go quite as smoothly. With both starting cornerbacks out, Penguins QB Beau Brungard and a very good offense was able to move the ball effectively, but the defense was able to hold on for the most part, bending, but not breaking for most of the day.
Overall, it was a successful start to Kentucky's season, and Coach Stein's time in Lexington. However, even in victory, there were some who excelled, and some who didn't have the day they would have liked. Here's a look at whose stock
is up after game one, and whose stock is down as we look ahead to week two.
Stock up: Kenny Minchey
Minchey came into the season with plenty of hype, but little experience. So, while there was optimism, nobody knew what to expect. They were rewarded handsomely, though. Yes, the numbers were there, but he looked like a veteran under center. He was poised in the pocket, looked confident with his throws, and made good decision all game long. It's just one game, but game one was exciting.
Stock down: DJ Miller
Coming into the season, one of Kentucky's question marks was at wide receiver. There was plenty of talent, but coaches were looking for someone to step up as the alpha of the group. Many thought Miller, who showed flashes last season, could be that guy. On Saturday, though, he struggled to get involved, and looked frustrated after a couple of targets went awry. He finished with no catches on the day.
Stock up: The Kentucky run game
The Wildcats have a bevvy of talented running backs, and a rebuilt offensive line, so there was hope that the running game would be solid. On Saturday, they exceeded all expectations. C.J. Baxter looked explosive early on, and ran for two touchdowns. Jason Patterson averaged 7 yards per carry and totaled 78 yards rushing. Then, late in the game, Martels Carter came in and powered his way to 37 yards on just 5 carries.
Stock down: Kentucky pass rush
One of the areas of concern prior to game one was finding a pass rush. Unfortunately, that didn't develop against Youngstown State. There were a few flashes, but overall, Brungard was able to get comfortable in the pocket and make too many easy throws. The edge rush group, in particular, has to find some consistent ability to get pressure, or good QBs will pick them apart.
Stock up: Freshman WRs
While the veteran receivers didn't get things going on Saturday, the newcomers shined. Kenny Darby was especially effective, with three receptions for 74 yards and a touchdown. Prince Jean had two catches for 27 yards and an exciting score from 26 yards out where he danced along the sideline. Both players looked like future stars, and have earned even more playing time going forward
Stock up: Kentucky tight ends
Kentucky hasn't always used tight ends as a big part of the offense, but on Saturday, Stein showed the nation that they will be a focus in his offense. Willie Rodriguez and Mikkel Skinner combined for 8 catches and 109 yards, and each had a touchdown. Even Henry Boyer had a 31-yard reception. After the game, Stein said he would continue to get them involved.
Stock up: Ahmad Breaux
The Wildcats pass rush struggled for most of the day, especially on the edge, but the interior guys had moments. Breaux, the LSU transfer, especially looked strong, and got some push in the middle. He also had the game's only sack on a play where he just overpowered his blocker and dragged Brungard down.
Stock up: Jordan Castell
The other defensive player for the Cats who stood out was safety Jordan Castell. He showed off the skillset Kentucky coveted by being a sure tackler, and an instinctive player near the line of scrimmage. He made two terrific plays in the backfield, recording two tackles for losses.
This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Stock up, stock down from Kentucky's win over Youngstown St
