Will Levis is a 'major part' of Kentucky's offensive success, Josh Heupel says

The Tennessee defense will have their hands full this weekend with Kentucky quarterback Will Levis. The Wildcat’s signal-caller is one of the best in the nation and NFL projections suggest the same. If the Volunteers want to remain undefeated, Josh Heupel knows it starts with his team slowing down Levis.

Heupel broke down Levis’ importance to UK’s offense during his press conference on Thursday morning. He sees Levis as the focal point and catalyst for Kentucky as he’s involved in everything in both their pass and run game.

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“He is a major part of what they do on the offensive side of the ball,” said Heupel. “He does a great job controlling it. You see him redirect protections. He’s a big part of them. Play action pass, boots, movements, and at times in the run game.”

Levis’ strongest attribute is his arm with 1,635 yards and 13 touchdowns this season on a 69.5% completion rate. He hasn’t been as successful in the run game this year, but it’s still an aspect of his game you have to respect after he rushed for 376 yards and nine touchdowns a season ago. His overall success opens it up for others across the offense which takes the Wildcat offense to another level.

Kentucky’s sole hope to win in Knoxville this weekend will be Levis winning the day against Hendon Hooker and the high-octane Tennessee offense. If Heupel and his defense can just manage enough stops against him, though, it’ll go a long way in getting the Volunteers to 8-0.