Sept. 14, 2010

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Junior defensive tackle Luke McDermott and junior wide receiver Matt Roark will be the game captains for the Akron contest Saturday at Commonwealth Stadium, University of Kentucky head coach Joker Phillips has announced.

Game captains are usually chosen on the basis of performance in the previous game. McDermott, a native of Louisville, Ky., had a great game against Western Kentucky University, as he recorded two tackles, 0.5 tackles-for-loss and his first career interception. The interception came at a key time in UK’s 63-28 win as the Wildcats scored two plays later to take a lead they would not relinquish.

“The guy (Luke McDermott) earned the right to be the starter,” Phillips said after the game Saturday. “He just continues to make the play. I didn’t see who it was that made the interception so I asked. Somebody said, ‘Luke.’ He’s just all over the place. Maybe he’s becoming the Randall Cobb of defense.”

Roark also was impressive in the game against WKU, making three receptions for 65 yards. The native of Acworth, Ga., has made six catches this season, including a 40-yard reception against WKU, the longest of his career. Roark is also becoming a key part of UK’s special teams’ effort, gaining two special teams tackles against the HIlltoppers on Saturday.

“One thing Matt is doing for us, he’s one of the guys playing well on special teams,” Phillips said in his weekly news conference Monday. “He was the special teams player of the week for us and he has caught four or five passes. Three of those have been on big plays that he’s made on scrambles. That’s what I’m proud to see him do.”
McDermott and Roark will join permanent captains Randall Cobb and DeQuin Evans at the pregame coin toss.

“Cat Walk” at 4:45 p.m.: Fans wishing to participate in the “Cat Walk,” cheering the Wildcats when they enter the stadium Saturday, should be at Gate One of Commonwealth Stadium 4:45 p.m. ET.