Last week, I detailed three offensive players to keep your eye on. Now we switch to the other side of the ball. This past season, Kentucky was undoubtedly led by their defense, finishing with a top 25 defense in the country. Here are three defensive players that Kentucky is counting on in 2019.
Kentucky Defense
Kash Daniel – MLB
Kash Daniel is the leader of not only this defense, but the entire team. He always knows what needs to be said to get his teammates ready for game time, and get fans hyped up. The man is a heat seeking missile and leads all returning players in tackles, with 84.
Jordan Wright – OLB/DE
I know what you’re thinking. “I’ve never heard of this guy in my life, how can he help?” Well, you don’t know him because he spent his entire freshman year as the backup to a national defensive player of the year. Jordan Wright backed up Josh Allen all year long and is expected to play the same role. His development will be key for the Wildcats. This defensive unit lost all four starters in the secondary, and as a result, getting pressure on the quarterback will be important.
Jordan Griffin – S
In an extremely inexperienced secondary group, the senior is going to be relied on heavily. Jordan Griffin is the only defensive back on the roster with an interception recorded in a game. He fits the mold of defensive backs that Coach Mark Stoops has targeted lately, being on the taller side for typical safety.
X-Factor: Xavier Peters – OLB
I know I said that I would be highlighting only three players. However, if Xavier Peters receives immediate eligibility from the NCAA, watch out. Peters is a former four-star recruit who redshirted his first season at Florida State University. He then decided to transfer to Kentucky to be closer to his son. If he is able to play this season look for him to start in Josh Allen’s role instead of Jordan Wright.
