Everyone knows that Joey Gatewood and Beau Allen are the top two quarterbacks at Kentucky and will be in a three-way battle with Penn State transfer Will Levis for the starting job for the 2021 season. But what about the other quarterbacks on campus? How are Nik Scalzo and Kaiya Sheron doing during spring practice?
“Nik is the type of kid that can really switch his arm angles and do some different things,” offensive coordinator Liam Coen said. “He’s a smart kid who loves the game of football. He’s swimming a little bit mentally like everybody is, but it’s one of those things where he’s showing some good things.”
Sheron is the true freshman from Somerset who arrived on campus in January. He led Somerset to the 2019 state championship.
“Kaiya is the type of kid who will make a big-time throw and then just kinda walk off the field like nothing happened,” Coen said. He’s really a cool customer who has some stuff to him. He’s got a big arm. He’s done some nice things.
“All these guys have really progressed I think. From a progression standpoint, I’m pleased with both of those guys.”
It’s the same type situation at running back where Coen has made it clear he wants to get Chris Rodriguez 25 touches per game in a variety of ways. Where does that leave Kavosiey Smoke, JuTahn McClain, and Travis Tisdale?
Coen said Tuesday all three have done well in spring practice and noted how McClain has raised his level of play.
“I think where these guys are starting to separate themselves a little bit is their ability to run and catch and do some things in the pass game,” Coen said. “Free releasing those guys and placing them out a little bit and bringing them back and doing some things that create some issues for the defense.
“If you’re in man coverage, that’s a linebacker who’s one-on-one with Smoke or Jutahn or whoever is out there. I think that’s a matchup that works in our favor. I do feel good about those guys right now. It’s a deep group that I’m excited about.”
