Kentucky Football: Early Look at Benny Snell’s Replacements

KAVOSIEY SMOKE

Kavosiey Smoke is another redshirt freshman the Wildcats have in their stable of running backs. He had four carries for 45 yards last season.

Like Rodriguez, Smoke needs to use this spring to show the coaches he wants to compete and have significant playing time.

He is a shifty running back that can make cuts and get into open spaces quickly. When I  say fast, according to his Hudl, Smoke runs a 4.5 forty-yard dash.

However, he is a powerful running back as well. Smoke reminds me a lot of Leonard Fornette with his running style. One thing is for sure; he runs hard every time he touches the ball.

Smoke has a mean streak of his own too.  The 5-9 219 pound running back isn’t afraid to lower his helmet and run straight through a defender. Out of the three guys listed, Smoke seems to be the one who can earn those yards after contact.

Kentucky needs to find a guy that can earn those extra yards. He needs to take this spring and compete for his tail off against Rose and Rodriguez.

If he can learn to control his mean streak on the field and execute it the way coaches want, Smoke could end up a dark horse in this competition.

Each of these running backs brings something different to the program. So the staff may have to decide to share the load and let each back run a certain amount of carries a game. Spring ball in Lexington will be fun to watch especially at the running back position.