Report: Kentucky OC says QB Johnson 'is the guy' for Wildcats
In search of their first conference win of the year, the Kentucky Wildcats will take on fellow SEC East foe South Carolina this weekend at home.
This is a significant game for the Wildcats — considering the game may be construed as ‘winnable’ for Mark Stoops’ team. The quarterback position had been a spot of concern through the first two weeks of the year. Starter Drew Barker has demonstrated a penchant for being inconsistent — especially when it comes to turning the ball over.
Barker left early in the third game of the season against New Mexico State with a back injury. As a result, Stephen Johnson was inserted as the signal-caller. Against the Aggies, Johnson finished 17-of-22 for 310 yards and 3 touchdowns. On the year, he’s completed passes at a 72-percent clip, and has yet to throw an interception.
Offensive coordinator Eddie Gran spoke about the quarterback position on Tuesday, and released this news:
Eddie Gran on Barker: Still ongoing, Still being evaluated. Did not practice today. "Stephen is the guy."
— Jeff Drummond (@JDrumUK) September 20, 2016
Barker did not practice. Gunnar Hoak getting backup reps.
— Jon Hale (@JonHale_CJ) September 20, 2016
Drew Barker wasn't at practice today.
— Joe Mussatto (@joe_mussatto) September 20, 2016
Barker’s thrown four touchdowns to five interceptions through the first two games, and is completing passes at a paltry 50-percent average. Johnson not only gave UK a spark in the 62-42 win last week, but he also has the ability to scramble for yardage and run on quarterback-designed looks.
It will be fascinating to see how Johnson plays against the increased competition in conference play. Should he continue to perform at a high level, Kentucky may have found its quarterback going forward.