Kentucky fans have experienced the full gamut of emotions this season. Things were looking pretty good in Lexington after the first five weeks of the season. As it tends to happen though, the weight of the long season began to weigh upon Mark Stoops’ young but talented squad. Though next year’s schedule will not be nearly as favorable as the one the Wildcats face this year, a youthful core of contributors should help the team find itself next season. Near or at the top of the list are:

1.) Chris Westry: The rangy corner made a name for himself with his game-sealing interception against South Carolina in Columbia (while Spurrier was still around) and by ending Dak Prescott’s impressive no-interception streak, which dated back to last season. The 6-foot-4, 185-pounder has the size and physicality necessary to morph into the program’s lockdown defender. His length will allow him to challenge the tall receivers throughout the SEC.

2.) CJ Conrad: Though he only has 139 reception yards and a single touchdown on the season, the freshman tight end has established himself as Patrick Towles’ most reliable third-down passing target. Conrad was a coup for Stoops’ staff on the recruiting trail, and he should only improve as he continues to add muscle to his 6-foot-5 frame.

3.) Garrett Johnson: The most productive of UK’s loaded stable of sophomore wide receivers, Johnson has had at least 1 catch in every game this season. He leads the team with 617 yards and a pair of touchdowns on just 39 catches. Johnson is perhaps the most versatile of the group, but they come in all shapes and sizes with all of them sharing the common traits of upside and talent. Whoever is under center for Kentucky next season should be a kid in a candy store, assuming the offensive line improves and is able to give them time to throw.

4.) Stanley “Boom” Williams: Perhaps the fastest running back in the SEC East, Williams has been held back this season by a shaky offensive line and immaturity. After reportedly not taking his demotion during the Missouri game well, Boom was benched for the team’s overtime win against in-state foe Eastern Kentucky. To his credit, he returned with more team spirit and positivity. He did not play in the Georgia loss but is not expected to miss any more time. As the young team grows together, he should benefit from improved blocking over the next two seasons. His dad also takes the homefield advantage up a notch with his game day antics.

5.) Drew Barker: Barker spurned offers from many other schools to stay at home and play quarterback for the blue and white. Many in Lexington are already grumbling for his insertion into the starting lineup. Even if Towles starts the remainder of the season and is named the starter again next year, Barker will still have two full seasons as the captain of the ship. Many think the earlier he can get to know how to play with all the weapons around him, the sooner the ‘Cats will begin their long-awaited ascension to the top of the conference.