Kentucky Football: Report card for their Week 1 win against Toledo

Defense

The defense had a strong game overall, but there were still some areas of improvement, starting with the defensive line.

Defensive Line: B-

Like previously mentioned, it was an up and down game for several units on the field and the defensive line was one of them. There were times the Wildcats dominated and were able to get in the backfield, but other times where they would lose contain or rush up field leaving a gap open for the back.

They did do a good job getting pressure, but Toledo’s starting quarterback Mitchell Guadagni was able to escape pressure and use his legs to make a play or throw it downfield. The Rockets had 181 yards rushing on 39 carries with all three of their touchdowns coming on the ground. Kentucky’s defensive found a way to make plays, but there are a few things they will want to clean up.

Linebacker: A-

This was the best position group on the field for the Wildcats on Saturday. They did a good job flying around and making plays and even causing turnovers. Kash Daniel was a name you new going in and he performed well as he had a big tackle for loss and made his presence known.

However, it was linebacker Deandre Square who really stood out for the Wildcats. He had 11 tackles, 0.5 sacks and 1.5 tackles for loss. He also had a huge interception to put the Wildcat offense in a good situation. The unit still over-pursued at times, but overall this was Kentucky’s best against Toledo.

Defensive Backs: B+

Guadagni was able to make some plays in the first half against the Wildcats. Once he broke the pocket he was able to find open receivers downfield that have gotten free of the defensive backs for Kentucky. He was 7-for-12 passing before he got hurt. When Toledo brought in its backup, Carter Bradley, he went only 4-for-13 passing as the Wildcats’ defensive backs weren’t giving him any room to throw.

Overall this unit played solid without allowing any big plays to happen or any receivers blowing past them. Toledo only threw for 166 yards with only 11 total completions.