Can Tayvion Robinson bunk Wan'Dale Robinson comparisons?

The comparisons between Wan’Dale Robinson and Tayvion Robinson are unavoidable. Both players started their careers playing multiple positions at other Power Five programs. Each are explosive, playmaking slot receivers. Heck, they even share the same last name. The comparisons aren’t just for casual Kentucky football fans to make. Wide receivers coach Scott Woodward sees them everyday.

“They’re very comparable,” Woodward said Tuesday. “They’ve both got a great football mind, they’re both very smart kids. That’s what helped Wan’Dale be who he is today. I think Tayvion’s got that similar mindset to him. Tayvion’s a little bit smoother I’d say than Wan’Dale. Wan’Dale’s got more quickness to him than Tayvion does. But they’ve both got a great feel when they’re on the football field, they both got excellent hands and they’re both great route-runners. I’m interested to see what Tayvion can do on Saturday night.”

Like Wan’Dale, Tayvion Robinson stepped into the UK wide receivers room with more experience and production than any of his talented, young counterparts. That experience should benefit all of Will Levis‘ targets this fall.

“The one thing I love about T-Rob is he’s got a real high football IQ. He’s like a quarterback out there,” said offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello. “I call them fixers. You need them. Freshman can be overwhelmed. He’s the guy to say, ‘Hey, you need to be off the ball,’ or ‘get a little wider.’ He’s the calming guy you can trust and he’s played a lot of college football. He’s tough, he’s competitive and he’s talented. We gotta rely on him.”

For the second straight year, a Robinson in the slot is expected to be Levis’ No. 1 target. While No. 9 appreciates the comparisons to his predecessor, he wants to make a name for himself in Lexington this fall.

“Yeah, in a way,” said Tayvion Robinson. “I love that guy. He helped me get here. He was my host on my visit. He’s a great player. Obviously, everybody saw what he did last season. We’re two completely different guys. Both playmakers, but have a different game. I’m here to make a name for myself this season.”

The Big Blue Nation is anxiously awaiting to see what Kentucky’s talented young receivers can do. When Kentucky fans leave Kroger Field Saturday night, Tayvion Robinson might be the talk of the town.

“It’s going to be tough to take Tayvion off the field on Saturday,” said Woodward. “He’s a dynamic player. He’s great with the ball in his hands, he’s a great route runner, so he’s kind of separated himself as the leader of the room and been the go-to guy.”

Tayvion Robinson Consistently WOWed by Will Levis

Wan’Dale Robinson’s success in Kentucky’s pro-style scheme played a significant role in his decision to come to Kentucky. Getting the chance to play with Will Levis was another major factor. Even after sharing the field for nine months, he continues to be in awe of his quarterback.

“I feel like I have a ‘wow’ moment everyday, honestly,” said the Virginia Tech transfer. “I feel like everybody’s seen it, but the way he throws the ball, I don’t think there’s too many guys that can throw it that way: the strength he has, the cannon. It’s been an adjustment. It’s tough catching passes from him, but the more I get chemistry with him, the more I work with him, we’re getting on the same page.”

Levis’ arm strength has drawn NFL scouts to Kentucky football practices throughout the preseason. For Robinson, there have been growing pains, quite literally.

“Just the velocity he throws the ball, it’s insane. You can hear the ball through the air. He can rip a ball 30, 40 yards down the field. It’s impressive, but just working with him I kind have gotten used to him,” said Robinson.

“Coming in and out of routes, you definitely have to get your head around quick because he delivers it fast. When he knows who it’s going to, he gets the ball to em. It has been a development. I think my first camp I might’ve jammed all 10 of my fingers. It’s just an adjustment thing.”