Stoops Recaps Saturday Football Practice/Scrimmage
Following Saturday’s Kentucky football practice/scrimmage, head coach Mark Stoops met the media to discuss what he saw from the Cats.
Opening statement
“I really like where I’m at right now for spring,” Stoops said. “Obviously, there’s a ton of work to be done but I love this team’s energy, I like their focus, the way that we’re working. I feel like we’re getting better across the board. Off the field, the guys are working really hard to be united and spend time with each other and get to know each other. On the field, it’s been great competition.
“It’s been fun. It feels good to get out there and work on some of the areas where we fell short a year ago. With this practice today, we just finished with four live reps of fourth and one, fourth and one and a half, fourth and two and working on converting those tough yards and, conversely defensively, playing those situations.
“Overall, we’re making progress. I feel good, I’m excited about it. Just keep on working.”
On if any particular position group stood out on Saturday
“If I give a shoutout to anyone, it would probably be the defensive line,” Stoops said. “The defense, in general, is flying around. This time of year, traditionally, the defense is a little bit ahead anyway. But they’re playing really hard. It’s a very united group and playing very tough. I appreciate their effort for sure.”
On the quarterback room
“I’m not going to talk about any individual,” Stoops said. “During the spring, they’re each going to have their moments. What I like is that I feel like we got better the last several practices. Early on, coming off spring break and having that early practice, it’s going to be a little rough at times, but I feel like these last two practices, in particular, we’re making some jumps.”
On the offensive line
“I love what I’m seeing from the leadership, the effort, the continuity, we have big bodies,” Stoops said. “They’re working very hard and I love the group. We’re definitely making progress. As long as they keep that same attitude and work ethic, we’ll be significantly improved. That’s the goal across the board. I just like where they’re at. I like the group. They take coaching and they work really hard.”
On new wide receivers coach L’Damian Washington
“Coach has great energy,” Stoops said. “I love the way he coaches. He has great passion for the game, great knowledge and works very well with the guys. He invests a lot of his time on and of the field and so I really appreciate the work that he’s doing.”
