Wide receiver Josh Ali returns to Kentucky football practice

Kentucky’s passing offense will receive a significant shot in the arm this Saturday. Will Levis shared Tuesday evening that wide receiver Josh Ali has returned to Kentucky football practice just in time for the Wildcats’ matchup with Mississippi State.

“Josh coming back this week is big. I’m excited to get him back out there. I think he’s going to continue to make big plays for us and we’re going to make sure to get him the ball,” said the Kentucky quarterback. “He’s good, he looks healthy, he looks fast and he’s got sure hands. It’s good to have him out there as a leader too.”

Mark Stoops provided little clarity Monday on four injured Wildcats, simply saying, “We’ll see.” Now we know with certainty that Levis and Wan’Dale Robinson will get some much needed help against the Bulldogs in Starkville.

Ali has missed the last two games after suffering a leg injury against Florida. Despite his absence, he is still second on the team in receptions with 17 catches for 248 yards and a touchdown. He also has three rushes for 13 yards and a score. Ali opened the season with a career-high 136 receiving yards against ULM.

Without Ali in the lineup, Wan’Dale Robinson was targeted 27 times over the previous two games. Isaiah Epps and DeMarcus Harris had a few positive moments, but Robinson cannot consistently carry the heavy pass-catching load alone. Facing a Mississippi State pass defense this Saturday that ranks tenth in the SEC by allowing 234.1 yards per game through the air, Ali is returning to the gridiron at the right time.