Tayvion Robinson provides short area playmaking for Kentucky passing game

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On3 image — (Photo by Jacob Noger | UK Athletics)

The Sean McVay/Kyle Shanahan offense is built off of the wide zone rushing attack, but the passing game is also essential. In the throw game, slot receivers with short-area burst can make a killing. Kentucky is hoping that Tayvion Robinson can provide that playmaking element in 2022.

Wan’Dale Robinson is off to the NFL after recorded 104 receptions last fall as a transfer. The Wildcats went back to the portal to find their next high usage wideout in the slot. Former Virginia Tech transfer Tayvion Robinson flashed what made him such a productive player in three seasons at Virginia Tech at Kentucky’s spring scrimmage on Saturday. The senior out of Virginia Beach (Va.) Cox can get open consistently underneath.

“He’s a pretty versatile player. He’s very intelligent, he’s got a real good football IQ,” said Kentucky offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello. “And I think that every team needs a good separator in short area that can do good things in the red zone, in third down, in two-minute, and when you need plays.”

Quite often, the passing game will call for their slot wideout to get open on quick out routes or choice options giving the player power in multiple concepts. The offense thrives on quick hitters out of condensed formations to help create explosive plays from high percentage passes. In the spring game, Tayvion Robinson flashed playmaking juice in short areas with some strong yards after the catch on his way to 42 yards on four targets.

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Specifically, these slot receivers can do some damage in situational football. When Kentucky needs to make a play, the transfer’s number more times than not.

“If you got one, it helps your offense. If you got two, you can be really good in those situations,” said Scangarello. “If you got three, you’re going to be great. I think he’s one of those guys.”

Tayvion Robinson will be a guy for redshirt senior quarterback Will Levis to target consistently in big moments. As the offseason progresses, Kentucky will attempt to build depth as the passing game looks to take the next step in 2022.