Injury Report: Kentucky's Running Back Room Takes A Hit

Kentucky was already without Chris Rodriguez tonight, and during the season-opener vs. Miami (OH), two more running backs went down with injuries. FCS All-American Ramon Jefferson limped off the field towards the end of the first quarter and did not return to action. He had two carries for ten yards. In the fourth quarter, JuTahn McClain had to be helped off the field with a lower leg injury. The junior from Fairfield, Ohio had six carries for 16 yards.

“It’s a good thing we have some depth at that position,” Mark Stoops said after the game. “Running backs, they do have a tendency to get beat up. We’ll see what the extent of these injuries are.”

Starting in Rodriguez’s place was Kavosiey Smoke, who finished with seven carries for 32 yards. In all, Kentucky had 50 rushing yards and zero touchdowns on the ground.

No update on suspended players

When will Rodriguez return to the sidelines? As you might expect, Stoops was mum on the subject after the game. When asked when the players who were “not available” will be available, Stoops punted.

“No, no. I’ll address that Monday.”

Inside linebacker Jordan Wright also missed tonight’s game. Both he and Rodriguez were on the sidelines tonight. Sure would be nice to have them back for the Florida game.