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Football

Former Kentucky Football Players Reveal Program's Woes

2024-12-07

Wondering what's ailing the Kentucky football program? Well, some former Wildcats have their insights. In 2024, the team faced a 4-8 record and is undergoing a significant roster reset with 15 players entering the transfer portal. It's not about the coaches losing their touch; it's the NIL and portal era that's causing accountability issues. Players are quick to leave at the first sign of trouble or settle once they get big checks. Former running back AJ Rose asked, "Why everybody leaving Kentucky? One bad year they (gonna) get right." Former nose guard Quinton Bohanna responded, "New generation can't stand that heat. We had to make it right; we couldn't get (away) from it." Former linebacker DeAndre Square added, "We played for each other too. They gotta get back to that." Bohanna also said, "Yea too many outside factors in (their) head. We really cared (about) each other and the school; ain't (none) of that (no more). NIL and the portal gift & a curse." You may recall Kash Daniel sharing a similar message during the season. He said, "This is what happens when you have zero leaders and an opposing team that would rather die than lose." This is quite telling from a group that once led the program to one of its most dominant runs. There is clearly a culture issue. The transfer portal officially opens on Monday, Dec. 9, and so far, 15 players are seeking greener pastures. These players include DL Keeshawn Silver, DB Avery Stuart, LB Jayvant Brown, LS Walker Himebauch, TE Tanner Lemaster, TE Khamari Anderson, TE Jordan Dingle, OL Courtland Ford, OL Ben Christman, DL Tommy Ziesmer, WR Dane Key, WR Barion Brown, WR Anthony Brown-Stephens, EDGE Tyreese Fearbry, and EDGE Noah Matthews. To stay updated on the latest player movements, check out On3's Transfer Portal wire. Keep a closer eye on the Cats with our staff-only sticky thread on KSBoard, which will have updates on departures and targets throughout the offseason. Not a KSR+ member? Give it a try today.

The Impact of NIL and Portal on Player Accountability

1: The NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and portal era have brought about a significant change in college football. Players now have more options and financial incentives than ever before. This has led to a situation where players are quick to leave a team at the first sign of adversity. They are no longer committed to the program in the same way as before. Instead, they are focused on their own individual goals and financial gains. This has had a negative impact on team chemistry and accountability. 2: For example, in the case of the Kentucky football program, 15 players have already entered the transfer portal. This is a clear indication that the players are not committed to the team and are willing to leave at the first opportunity. The coaches and staff are left trying to figure out how to rebuild the team without the key players who have left. It's a difficult situation that requires a lot of work and effort to overcome.

The Role of Coaches in a Changing Landscape

1: While the NIL and portal era have put more pressure on players, coaches also face challenges in this new environment. They need to find ways to build team chemistry and keep the players committed to the program. They also need to be able to recruit new players who are committed to the team and its values. This requires a different approach to coaching and recruiting than in the past. 2: Mark Stoops and his staff have been working hard to address these issues. They have been trying to instill a sense of pride and commitment in the players. They have also been working to improve the team's on-field performance. However, it's a slow process and it will take time to see the results. In the meantime, the team will continue to face challenges as players come and go through the transfer portal.

The Culture of Kentucky Football: Past and Present

1: Kentucky football has a rich history and a strong culture. In the past, the program was known for its tough and competitive teams. The players were committed to each other and the school. They played with heart and determination. However, in recent years, the culture has changed. The NIL and portal era have brought in a new generation of players who are more focused on themselves than on the team. 2: This change in culture has had a negative impact on the program. The team is no longer as competitive as it once was. They are struggling to win games and build a winning tradition. It's important for the program to get back to its roots and restore the culture of toughness and commitment. This will require a lot of work and effort from the coaches, staff, and players.