Sykes: Short Memory Key for Defensive Backs

Kentucky defensive back Hasaan Sykes spoke to the media following Tuesday’s practice, and he sounded ready for the season to begin.

Sykes transferred to Kentucky after two years at Western Carolina. There, he played in 20 games, including 11 starts. He has three career interceptions, five pass breakups and a forced fumble.

One of the biggest adjustments for Sykes has been the size of everything, including UK’s home stadium.

“Every time we go into Kroger Field, I look around and I’m just amazed at the size of everything,” Sykes said. “So, I can’t wait.”

Sykes is embracing the challenge of stepping up a level in competition and facing Southeastern Conference wide receivers.

“I’ve been waiting since the end of last season,” he said.

Sykes was asked what was one thing that could make or break a cornerback, and he answered quickly and decisively.

“Short memory,” he said. “Whether you do good or bad, you have to go to your next play and play that play at 100 percent. If you do a bad play, let it go. You can’t let it drag on to the next play. Or, if you play very well, you get the interception, great pass work or whatever, you can’t hang on, so you have to let go.”

“I’ve given up a few plays here and there,” Sykes said. “But you have to bounce back and come back (to the next play). So, just (have a) short memory.”

Sykes was asked if he had recorded a pick six during the spring. He admitted that there was more than one.

“I did, yeah,” he said. “One in each (spring) scrimmage.”

And how is he doing during fall camp?

“I’ve had some (interceptions),” Sykes said.

Sykes was asked about two other players in his room, Demarcus Gardner and Grant Grayton, and why they could make a jump this season. His answer was simple.

“They’re just ready,” Sykes said. “Demarcus has matured a lot since I got here and he’s putting in a lot of work. And Grant has come a long way as well, just processing, mentally, his focus. So, I’m excited to see what they do.”

As for the rest of his position group, Sykes has been impressed with how the group has developed.

“They have just grown so much, as far as taking the playbook to the field,” Sykes said. “When you take the real time of processing it and go play faster, good things happen.”

Sykes and the rest of the defensive backs continue to progress as fall camp nears an end. That group will be counted on to make plays during the season, and Sykes believes they are up to the challenge.