Marquan McCall returns to practice, aiming for return vs. Vanderbilt

The big Bully in the middle of Kentucky’s defense could be back just in time to whip the Wildcats into shape. Marquan McCall has not played since the first quarter of the Florida game on Oct. 2. His teammate and close friend, Justin Rogers, revealed Wednesday night that McCall has returned to practice.

“It kind of messed with him,” Rogers said of McCall’s almost six-week absence. “He’s been practicing so he’s definitely ready for Saturday.”

Defensive coordinator Brad White also spoke following Wednesday’s practice. He deferred all injury questions to Mark Stoops, who will meet with the media Thursday evening.

McCall was fully dressed to play last Saturday against Tennessee. He kept his helmet off and never entered the action, but Bully remained vocal on the sideline. The UK nose guard lifted up his teammates and shared a few words with the Vols when they approached the Wildcats’ bench.

Rogers is anxious for his old friend to return. High school teammates at Detroit’s Oak Park High School, McCall has served as a mentor for Rogers ever since the former five-star recruit arrived on campus. The veteran has pushed Rogers, motivating the rising star to play at a high level in Lexington.

“Competing with Marquan, we played high school ball together and now we’re on the same team in college. He pushes me to be great. I want to be great,” said Rogers. “I want to do stuff he can’t do and I want to compete with him. It’s fun when we’re out there together. I want to show out and I know he wants to show out. It’s a competitive game.”

White, Corker Speak after Practice

The Kentucky defense has been gutted by the previous two opponents. Brad White and Yusuf Corker have been a part of a ton of impressive Kentucky defensive performances in the past. They share what the Wildcats are doing to dig out of a midseason hole and finish strong.