Oct. 26, 2011
LEXINGTON, Ky. – University of Kentucky football head coach Joker Phillips and the Wildcat football team completed its second practice of the week Wednesday at the Nutter Training Facility, continuing to emphasize improvements both mentally and physically.
“It was a good day, but we have to have an even better day tomorrow,” Phillips said. “This is a game that you have to come out and execute and play your responsibilities on defense, execute on offense and in the kicking game to have an opportunity to win the game. And, you have to play physical and that is what we have to get our minds ready to do.”
Phillips said one of the keys to the game on Saturday will be which team is more physical on both sides of the football. So far this season, Phillips has been pleased with the physicality of his defensive front and has seen major improvements in the offensive front recently. Kentucky’s offensive line has not allowed a sack in its last two games.
“I think up front, especially on the defensive side of the ball, it has been a pretty physical bunch,” Phillips said about his team. “I think that offensively, we are now starting to get there thanks to the offensive line playing together the past few games. I think there have been some improvements in that area overall, but we have to have more this week. Mississippi State is a bunch that likes to run downhill and try to intimidate you up front.”
In terms of injuries, Phillips said for the most part the players who sat out on Tuesday returned to the practice fields on Wednesday. True freshman fullback D.J. Warren did not have any contact on Wednesday, while fellow true freshman Daylen Hall was limited, according to Phillips.
Kentucky will conclude is on-field preparation for Mississippi State on Thursday morning.
Reminders to Fans – Saturday is “Blackout Game”: Saturday’s game has been declared a “Blackout Game.” The Wildcats will wear black uniforms and fans are encouraged to wear black as well.
Reminder to Fans – As Per City Ordinance, Masks Are Not Allowed: With Halloween approaching, fans are reminded that as per Lexington city ordinance, masks may not be worn in public. Therefore, fans may not enter Commonwealth Stadium with masks or wear masks on game day. Also, for safety and security purposes, costume props will not be permitted inside the stadium on game day.
Reminders to Fans – Cat Walk at 4:45: Fans wishing to participate in the “Cat Walk,” cheering the Wildcats when they enter Commonwealth Stadium on Saturday, should be at Gate One of the stadium at 4:45 p.m.
