Thursday Practice Report

First, on behalf of my family, I’d like to thank you for the incredible outpouring of support during a difficult week. The KSR Family has been wonderful, for which I will be eternally grateful. In keeping with Big Fred’s attitude, it’s now time to dust ourselves off and get back to work. Following Thursday’s practice G George Asafo-Adjei and NT Naquez Pringle addressed the media gathering. The pair was followed by Coordinators Eddie Gran and DJ Eliot as well as DB Coach Steve Clinkscale. As we’ve often discussed, moving George Asafo-Adjei to guard was the first step in creating an SEC ready offensive line. This spring, that move is complete. The sophomore has transitioned his body while maintaining the strength and speed to operate within the interior of the line of scrimmage. As interpreted through practice remarks, within the Gran system, guards will pull more than in the past. [video width="640" height="360" m4v="http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/IMG_1139.m4v"][/video] Nose Tackle Naquez Pringle’s adjustment from junior college to the SEC has taken time. While still learning the practice ropes, Pringle has slimmed down to 320 pounds. As can be seen below, center Jon Toth appropriately welcomed him to the SEC. [video width="640" height="360" m4v="http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/IMG_1141.m4v"][/video] DJ Eliot and the Kentucky defense has to produce a pass rush. Given the Wildcat’s lowly ranking in the quarterback sack and tackles for loss categories, this should come as no surprise. Eliot made a judicious point in saying that in 2015 the Cats missed several sack opportunities which would have skewed the statistic in a positive manner. Getting the QB to the ground has been and will remain to be an emphatic coaching point going into Southern Miss. Also, with the departure of Andy Buh, Eliot has assumed the OLB/DE coaching responsibilities. Offensive coordinator Eddie Gran continues to impress. As a not so new media member, I can appreciate his honesty and candor when addressing his side of the football. Tempo has yet to please the play caller, but should come with system familiarity. Gran praised QB Drew Barker’s on and off field approach. This can only be interpreted as a positive sign for the junior signal caller. [video width="352" height="200" m4v="http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/IMG_1142.m4v"][/video] Secondary Coach Steve Clinkscale spoke highly of his two sophomore cornerbacks, Chris Westry and Derrick Baity. While Westry received accolades, Baity is developing into a 6’3" technician. Combined, the cornerbacks have the potential to become the best pair of boundary defenders in Stoops era. Safety depth and skill level are also allowing DJ Eliot to install nickel and dime packages. [video width="568" height="320" m4v="http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/IMG_1143.m4v"][/video] Reminder, spring game is on April 16^th at noon. Radio and webcast information will surface soon. KSR will have you covered.