After a terrific 2018 season, Kentucky has begun 2019 with an 0-3 SEC record. The Wildcats have lost starting quarterback Terry Wilson and have dropped their last three games.

What’s worse, backup signal caller Sawyer Smith is also dealing with injuries. That leaves Kentucky in quite a bind in terms of what to do at quarterback moving forward. Head coach Mark Stoops addressed his team’s quarterback situation and where the players stand mentally after three straight defeats during his Wednesday press conference.

“It’s up in the air,” Stoops said about the quarterback situation. He added that the team hopes Smith can use the bye week to recover from some of his injuries and be ready for Arkansas on Oct. 12.

Stoops was also complimentary of Lynn, calling him a “very bright guy” that’s good with the “reads and RPO.”

Smith went just 11-for-32 with 90 yards and an interception against South Carolina. Bowden played late, going 2-for-2 with seven yards.

Stoops also said Wednesday that “it’s definitely a challenge” to keep the team thinking positively but said “we are determined to get things right.”

Kentucky will host Arkansas at 7:30 ET on Oct. 12.

Here’s a more complete breakdown of what Stoops said Wednesday:

  • On the mental state of his team right now: It’s definitely a challenge, no doubt. We had high expectations coming into the season … but we are determined to get things right. Being banged up, the bye came at a good time. We are an experienced D so this week we are working on fundamentals and improving where we need to improve
  • On Javon Kinlaw’s play: He is a fantastic player… He is one of those game wreckers. He has great size, he is a good looking guy. He is explosive, has length, he causes a lot of programs. He is very impactful.