'Those guys are good': Kentucky defense is pushing Kentucky offense in fall camp

Expectations are high for Kentucky’s defense entering 2023. With 12 players returning with starting experience, defensive coordinator Brad White could have the program’s most well-rounded since the former Indianapolis Colts assistant was promoted to play-caller in 2019.

During fall camp, Kentucky’s defense is pushing the offense in more ways than one.

“Man, those guys are good. Those guys are really good. I would say obviously J.J. Weaver, Deone Walker,” Kentucky quarterback Devin Leary told reporters on Saturday when asked about the defense. “I think Max [Hairston] is having a really good camp. Dru Phillips is doing a great job. Zion [Childress]. J-Love [Jordan Lovett] does a great job. Obviously, Trevin [Wallace], D-Jack [D’Eryk Jackson].

The Wildcats return nine players who played 300-plus snaps last season, and that’s not counting Alex Afari Jr., Jalen Geiger, Josaih Hayes, and Kahlil Saunders. In 2022, Kentucky finished second in the SEC in success rate (36.9%), third in points per scoring opportunity (3.15), and No. 30 overall in points per drive (1.83). By all accounts, White had a top-15 defense last season, and Kentucky has a chance to reach that mark again in 2023.

So far, this group is challenging a rebuilding offense that breaking in its fair share of new starters.

Every single day — especially going against Coach White — it’s definitely a challenge,” Leary said.

There are some depth concerns at off-ball linebacker and EDGE, but UK feels very good about its starters. At cornerback, there is a big competition going on for a starting spot, but signs are pointing to Hairston becoming a full-time starter as a redshirt sophomore. Some unknowns are beginning to be answered.

As Kentucky prepares for its final scrimmage of fall camp, it’s become clear that expectations have not changed. The Wildcats appear to have the personnel and scheme to again be one of the best defenses in the SEC this fall.