Kentucky QB Lynn Bowden had a tough time overall last week in the loss at Georgia. However, the converted wide receiver did plenty to put stress on the Bulldogs, while the Georgia defense also shook things up to keep him off balance.

Speaking to the media this week, UK coaches, including QB coach and co-offensive coordinator Darin Hinshaw said he expects Bowden to read the defense this week against Missouri the same way he did at Georgia.

Bowden last week had 17 carries for 99 yards, with a long of 21 yards, in the 21-0 loss, and was 2-for-15 passing for 17 yards.

“Georgia at times was taking away Lynn,” Hinshaw said. “They wanted us to give it to the running backs, and there were times we force-fed Lynn into some situations where the quarterback was running the ball. He did a great job reading the defenses and that’s what he’s got to do this week. When they give him the situation where they’re taking him away and he’s giving it to the running backs, and there’s going to be times where he’s got to pull it and go make plays. There’s no doubt Lynn was electric on the field when he got loose. He made safeties miss, that’s what he’s going to have to do this week, and continue to run that rock.”

Against Arkansas in his first start, Hinshaw said Bowden did a great job of stepping up in the pocket. But between the Georgia pass rush and the rainy conditions, it was difficult to do that in Athens.

“Stepping up wasn’t fun,” Hinshaw said. “… Yes, he is aware of that. He did see the film and some situations where he could step up and deliver the ball in different areas, but he also makes plays escaping the pocket, which is something we’ve got to keep doing with him.”