Shane Beamer believes Kentucky QB Will Levis has a bright future in the NFL, and the South Carolina coach will get a test against the Levis and Wildcats in a 7:30 p.m. game on Saturday in Lexington against the No. 13 Wildcats.

“I thought Will was a fantastic player going into the game last year,” Beamer said on the SEC coaches media teleconference. “… He was really impressive already at that point,” Beamer said. “Just watching him this year, he’s gotten so much better. He’s a first-round draft pick and rightfully show. He can make all the throws, he’s big, he can make plays with his feet. … His arm strength is off the charts. Got a ton of respect for him.”

The Cats have faced backlash about the struggles in the running game this season, and whether UK is more of a passing team this year. With their star running back now back in the fold, the offensive identity is still intact.

“I feel like they’re running it this year as well. Maybe in some people’s minds they are having some trouble running the ball,” Beamer said. “… Now, they’ve got the same quarterback and even more dynamic receivers, but then you bring Chris Rodriguez back. … Getting Rodriguez back will certainly help them run the football. They haven’t all of a sudden turned into a passing offense.”

Keith Farner

A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.