WATCH: Kentucky mics up Ray Davis for fall camp scrimmage

Chris Rodriguez Jr. is now toting the rock for the Washington Commanders in the NFL. One of the top tailbacks in Kentucky football history has left big shoes to fill in Lexington. Under offensive coordinator Liam Coen, the Wildcats will likely use a committee approach, but an SEC transfer stands out as a potential top candidate to be RB1 this season.

Former Temple tailback Ray Davis rushed for 1,042 yards and five touchdowns while also contributing 29 catches at Vanderbilt last season. The redshirt senior had five 100-yard rushing games last season and has rushed for 2,497 yards during his collegiate career. Kentucky is hoping that Davis can bring that production to their offense.

On Saturday, the Wildcats had their first scrimmage of fall camp and gave us a behind-the-scenes look on Sunday morning. Davis was mic’d up for the highlight package and looks the part of an SEC tailback.

Pads thumping. The countdown is on …

🗣️ @Ray_Davis07 pic.twitter.com/i19RTBg0Ej

— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) August 13, 2023

“It’s time to get them pads thumping, man. It’s what we’ve been waiting for,” Davis said. “The countdown until this place is packed. It’s going to be rocking.”

In the video package, there are multiple highlights shown from the scrimmage. Barion Brown was dressed out in full pads and shown on kickoff return. Demie Sumo-Karngbaye can be seen toting the rock. There were Devin Leary completions to Brenden Bates, Anthony Brown, and a pair of deep throws to Tayvion Robinson both at Kroger Field and in Kentucky’s refurbished indoor facility. Plus a long field goal was made.

Davis figures to play a key role in the offense, but he is currently being pushed by Ramon Jefferson, JuTahn McClain, Sumo-Karngbaye, and La’Vell Wright. There is another week of fall camp this week before the final scrimmage on Aug. 19. After that, the Cats will enter game prep for Ball State.

Football season is quickly approaching.