Brock Bowers is 'absolute freak' that Kentucky must stop

Caleb Williams and Michael Penix Jr. appear to be the top contenders for the Heisman Trophy. Quarterbacks often get the most shine in college football, but Georgia might have the best overall football player in the country again. One year after having Jalen Carter, the Bulldogs have another freak that must be accounted for on every snap.

Brock Bowers is back for year three at Georgia. The former blue-chip recruit has recorded 149 career receptions for 2,237 yards and 28 total touchdowns. The tight end is a walking mismatch that can carry the ball like a running back and must be matched up with like a wide receiver on the outside. In less than seven months, an NFL franchise is going to spend an early first-round pick on the California native. Bowers will become a third-time All-American in December.

In 2023, this Georgia offense goes as Brock Bowers goes.

In a tight spot against Auburn in Week 5, the Bulldogs turned to their star tight end. Brock Bowers recorded eight receptions on 14 targets for 157 yards and a touchdown in the big road win. As UGA’s ground game is dealing with injuries and some inefficient play, the two-time defending national champions are putting some more on the plate for first-time QB1 Carson Beck. That means that Bowers is being force-fed the football.

Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops is preparing his defense to defend Brock Bowers for a third consecutive season. The challenge will be steep on Saturday night at Sanford Stadium.

“Absolute freak, and I mean that in the most complimentary way. What an incredible player. He’s selfless. He’s a complete player,” Stoops told KSR on Monday when asked about Brock Bowers. “He plays well without the football. He plays well with the football. He’s a team guy.”

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Through five games, Bowers has 30 receptions on 40 targets this season for 413 yards and three touchdowns. The junior is the clear WR1 for this offense and is someone new offensive coordinator Mike Bobo will ride in big moments. When a high-leverage spot arrives on Saturday night, Kentucky must have a plan for Bowers.

“This guy is something I haven’t seen before,” Stoops said.