Brock Vandagriff cites Brock Bowers’ form of leadership, difference as QB

For the first time in Brock Vandagriff’s collegiate career, he is expected to be the full-time starting quarterback. The former five-star prospect transferred to Kentucky this offseason from Georgia. Despite the change of scenery, Vandagriff isn’t changing his leadership style.

“I wouldn’t say it’s changed too much because I don’t really see myself as a big rah-rah guy,” Vandagriff said. “Referring back to my buddy Brock Bowers, he didn’t say a word. You go in. You do your job. People know the time you put in. They see that. They respect that and they trust you.

“You’re gonna go make plays on Saturday. Obviously, though, being a quarterback, you have to be a little more vocal. So being able to be a little more vocal with the guys and I just keep on demanding the standard that we have set on offense already.”

In three seasons at Georgia, Vandagriff made 13 appearances. He amassed 12 completions for 165 yards and two touchdowns. While Vandagriff’s career statistics don’t jump off the page, nobody doubts his potential.

Vandagriff played high school football at Bogart (Ga.) Prince Avenue Christian, where he was a five-star prospect. He was the No. 22 overall recruit and No. 4 QB in the 2021 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Stuck behind quarterbacks like Stetson Bennett and Carson Beck at Georgia, Vandagriff was never forced to carry the burden of a leader. Now, Kentucky’s offense will consistently look to him in moments of need. Vandagriff is prepared for the new role.

“I wouldn’t say I’m ‘coming out of my shell,’ but being more vocal with those guys and then carrying out my fakes and stuff like that,” Vandagriff said. “It’s easier to follow a guy when you know that they’ve put in the work and I’m gonna make sure I do my job.”

Brock Vandagriff makes excellent first impression

Vandagriff plans to lead by example. His plan worked to perfection in Kentucky’s Blue-White Spring Game on Saturday. The 6-foot-3 redshirt junior looked comfortable in the pocket, picking apart UK’s second-team defense for multiple touchdowns.

After the exhibition, Vandagriff evaluated his performance.

“Obviously, there’s still room for improvement but overall pleased,” Vandagriff said. “You don’t want to have a bad game because then you think about all summer, all fall. But I think it was pretty solid.”