Pay attention to defensive linemen Josaih Hayes and Isaiah Gibson

Isaiah Gibson, right, could be the X-factor for UK's defensive line this season. (Jeff Houchin Photo)

You won’t see many people predicting that a breakout star for Kentucky this year could be sophomore defensive lineman Josaih Hayes of Mississippi. The 6-3, 310-pound Hayes played in five games last year but had what UK defensive line coach Anwar Stewart called a “really good offseason” to get ready for this year.

“He is looking good. I watch him work out every day and he is just a powerful, explosive young man,” Stewart, a former UK defensive end/linebacker and 13-year CFL veteran, said. “By the end of the year people are going to know and love him.

“He has a great personality. He is a momma’s boy and if I have any issues I call her and she will straighten him out. Guys just take to him. He was highly recruited out of high school and has been doing a really good job. I am really excited to see what he is going to do.”

Another sophomore, 302-pound defensive end Isaiah Gibson, is another new name to remember. He had five tackles and a quarterback hurry in nine games last year.

“He has the size and ability. He is fast. He has every tangible measurement you want in a defensive lineman,” Stewart said. “Now he just has to put it all together.

“He is one guy that could be the X-factor for us this year. I am excited to see how he starts out and competes. But I really think he could be a big surprise.”