Transfer Portal Bio Blast: Georgia QB Brock Vandagriff

[Editor’s Note: With the news that Brock Vandagriff has committed to Kentucky, we’re moving this post up so you can learn more about the newest Wildcat.]

A new name has emerged on the transfer portal that could fill the void at quarterback next fall for the Kentucky Wildcats. Georgia signal-caller Brock Vandagriff entered the transfer portal Monday morning and immediately became one of the most coveted prospects available.

As organizations published stories of Vandagriff’s decision, sources told On3’s Pete Nakos that Kentucky is the “top destination to watch for the former five-star recruit.” He is not the only quarterback on Kentucky’s radar, but it sounds like he is at the top of their big board. What does Vandagriff bring to the table and how could he fit into Liam Coen’s system? Let’s answer those questions in this bio blast.

Vandagriff Scouting Report

Brock Vandagriff was one of the most sought after quarterbacks in the country when the Georgia native committed to play for the Dawgs. A five-star talent, he was the No. 22 overall prospect in the class of 2022, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. The man primarily responsible for evaluating high school prospects for On3 is Charles Power. Prior to joining On3, Power wrote this scouting report at 247 Sports.

“Possesses prototypical stature and frame for the position. Has continued to fill out and already has muscle mass, particularly in his upper body. Productive against small school competition both through the air and as a runner. Shows the ability to make throws from multiple platforms. Can stand in the pocket and drive the ball down the middle of the field while also making touch throws and hitting passes on the run. Primarily projects as a pocket passer at the next level but shows nice athleticism in making plays with his legs , rushing for over 1,000 yards as a sophomore. Has a nice framework as a passer but can continue improving his mechanics and improving his ball location and overall operating efficiency. Projects as one of the more talented signal callers in the 2021 cycle with the upside of developing into a Power Five starter and eventual NFL Draft pick.”

Charles Power

Career at Georgia

Vandagriff enrolled early in the spring of 2021 and completed six of nine passes for 47 yards in G-Day intrasquad spring game. During his redshirt season he appeared in two games, victories over UAB and Charleston Southern. The following season he was once again stuck behind Stetson Bennett and Carson Beck, but did appear in three games during the Dawgs’ national title campaign.

Many had circled his name as a potential transfer ahead of the 2023 season. A heated competition with Beck ensued this spring. Even though most believed Beck was the man for the job, Vandagriff made Kirby Smart think long and hard about the decision. During the G-Day spring game Vandagriff threw for two touchdowns and 175 yards. Despite the performance, Beck was ultimately named the starter.

Instead of entering the portal following the announcement, Vandagriff spent the fall backing up Beck. He appeared in seven games and threw for 165 yards and two touchdowns. Kentucky fans got to see him late in the loss between the hedges when the quarterback completed 5-of-7 passes for 46 yards and a touchdown on fourth down.

Kentucky Connection

Great quarterbacks want to play for Liam Coen. That much is clear. Aside from the obvious, Vandagriff has another connection to Central Kentucky. His younger sister, AG Vandagriff, was an All-ASUN outside hitter for the Eastern Kentucky volleyball team. It would make life much easier for the Vandagriff family if the siblings are playing fall sports just 30 minutes apart.

Not only does he have a local connection, the man has some great lettuce.

Vandagriff Checks Boxes for Kentucky

Cutter Boley will be on campus next month and Stone Saunders is committed in the following recruiting class. They have addressed their high school recruiting problem at quarterback, but Liam Coen needs someone to keep the boat afloat while the underclassmen develop.

Vandagriff has two years of eligibility, an ideal amount of time for Boley to learn how to operate Coen’s system and acclimate to SEC football. An extra season also gives the Cats some comfort in year-to-year continuity with a signal-caller that is built like a pro quarterback (6-foot-3, 210 pounds), who can also use legs to extend plays while making off-platform throws. The QB run game played an important role during Liam Coen’s first season at Kentucky and that could return with Vandagriff under center.

The most successful transfer quarterback at Kentucky came from a traditional powerhouse after he could not crack the rotation. Even though his college playing experience is minimal, Brock Vandagriff fits the blueprint for success in Lexington. Now it’s Mark Stoops’ job to seal the deal.

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