Kentucky starts game vs. Vanderbilt with powerful on-field tribute to late OL coach John Schlarman
The Kentucky Wildcats are playing with heavy hearts this week after OL coach John Schlarman passed away at the age of 45 after a 2-year battle with cancer.
Taking on Vanderbilt in Lexington, the Wildcats honored Schlarman’s memory on the first play of the game with a powerful tribute.
As you can see below, the Wildcats left the left guard spot (which Schlarman manned for Kentucky during his playing days) empty on the first play, taking a delay of game penalty. The Commodores declined the penalty:
Goosebumps.@UKFootball leaves the Left Tackle position open for the first play from scrimmage and takes a delay of game penalty in honor of OL Coach John Schlarman who passed away after his battle with cancer.
Vanderbilt declines the penalty.
Emotional day in Lexington. pic.twitter.com/uJrkCTUKn7
— Peter Burns (@PeterBurnsESPN) November 14, 2020
OL Landon Young, who is wearing No. 65 to honor Schlarman, watched the first play from the sideline before entering the game:
https://twitter.com/UKFootball/status/1327659139556810752
In a drive that would have made Schlarman proud, Kentucky marched down the field for a touchdown to start the game. The Wildcats hold a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter.