Marquan McCall
Kentucky’s 2020 signing class probably had the best overall group of defensive linemen that Mark Stoops has signed at Kentucky. None of them, though, really played a major role in the 2020 season — something defensive line coach Anwar Stewart said was a good thing because they didn’t have to be thrown into SEC play before they were physically ready.
Stoops is not worried about expectations for that group going into spring practice.
“I am worried about day-to-day. Each of those players, challenging themselves to get better each and every day. I think they all have a very good work ethic. I think they’re very talented,” the UK coach said.
Defensive line talk starts with the return of nose guard Marquan McCall.
“I’m really excited about the way Marquan has come back and just his attitude and what he’s done this winter, academically, what he’s doing in the weight room. I really like his mindset right now and if he continues to grow, he has an opportunity to be an impact guy,” Stoops said. “I just want to encourage him to stay consistent with what he’s doing because he’s off to a really good start.”
Never doubt that Josh Paschal is the team leader, not just the leader on the defensive front.
“Josh Paschal kind of leads the whole team, just with his mindset, his leadership, his dedication to his teammates and this program. Josh is a special player and has an opportunity to be a really impactful defensive player this year,” Stoops said.
The good news is that UK has a lot more defensive linemen Stoops believes can be really good.
“You’ve got Octavious (Oxendine). You’ve got Isaiah Gibson, Justin Rogers, Tre’Vonn Rybka, Sam Anaele –- all of those guys. Josaih Hayes. All talented guys, individually they need to concentrate on themselves and get better day by day,” the UK coach said.
“There’s no magic formula. You’ve just got to go out each and every day and get better. It’s a fundamental game. The closer you get to the line of scrimmage the more fundamental it becomes. So, offensive line, defensive line, it’s really a technique game. Those guys really have to hone in on their craft and what they’re doing and pay attention, and fundamentally get better each day.”
