JaredMcGowan

Had the physical maturity to play as a true freshman last season … Has worked to improve his strength in the off-season … Will challenge Jason Rollins for the starting job at left guard … Begins spring No. 2 at that position … Has played in five games.

2002 (Freshman): One of just six true freshmen who earned playing time for the Wildcats … Saw action in five games, including the wins over Texas-El Paso, Middle Tennessee, Mississippi State, and Vanderbilt … Showed excellent potential … Had two knockdown blocks during his relief stints in the line … Claimed his first varsity letter.

High School: Big, mobile offensive lineman who went all the way to signing day before making his commitment to the Wildcats ? Second-team all-state choice by the Jackson Clarion-Ledger following his senior season at Horn Lake (Miss.) HS ? Horn Lake competes in Class AAAAA, the largest classification in Mississippi ? Played offensive tackle as a senior and did not allow a quarterback sack all year on a team that featured a pass-oriented offense ? Started at defensive tackle his junior season and offensive guard as a sophomore ? First-team all-region as a junior and senior ? The No. 22 prospect in Mississippi, according to SuperPrep magazine ? Coached by David Wilkerson ? Played one year of basketball ? Chose Kentucky over Mississippi State and Troy State.

Personal: Full name is Jared Anthony McGowan ? Born 10-3-83 in Memphis, Tenn. ? Son of Odell McGowan and Cynthia McGowan Jones.