Kentucky was the better team when they played Ole Miss on Saturday, but self-inflicted mistakes cost them the game. To make it worse, three key players are dealing with injuries, with two of them potentially missing an extended period of time, according to Ryan Lemond and Kentucky Sports Radio.
Those three players are Jeremy Flax, Jacquez Jones, and Kavosiey Smoke.
Jeremy Flax
Flax was injured in the final offensive drive of the game, going down as he grabbed his hamstring with what many thought was just a cramp – which Ole Miss fans loudly booed at. However, it is now to be believed to be more severe and is “50/50” that Flax will play this week, and could miss several weeks according to Lemond.
While all three injuries are significant, Flax’s injury may be the most concerning due to the inconsistency of the offensive line. That was put on immediate display as Flax was replaced by redshirt freshman, David Wohlabaugh Jr., who gave up the quarterback rush that resulted in the game-ending fumble.
Jacquez Jones
Prior to Saturday’s game, Jones – a transfer from Ole Miss – had been one of Kentucky’s key defensive leaders and led the team in total tackles. Early in the first quarter, the star linebacker was slow to get up after an Ole Miss run.
Jones was able to walk off under his power and even returned to make a key interception to halt a quickly moving Ole Miss drive to end the first half. However, the injury seemed to be too bothersome after multiple plays in the second half, and did not return.
Lemond went on to say that Jones could be out for “the rest of the season”, but in his weekly press conference on Monday, Stoops said, “He’s banged up, we’ll see,” when asked about Jones’ status.
Linebacker is a position where Kentucky has depth, and JJ Weaver could be making a return this week, which will be much needed.
Kavosiey Smoke
Contrary to the other two, Smoke’s injury was not one that was as noticeable but the senior back is believed to have suffered a concussion.
Smoke has been the primary back since his breakout half at Florida, but with Chris Rodriguez’s return and Jutahn McClain showing some strong runs, the Wildcats are equipped to handle it if he is ruled out. However, for the sake of depth, it is hopeful that Smoke does not miss too much time.
It is important to note that all three players are still on this week’s depth chart and no official announcement has been made, but it is best to prepare as if they will be out.
Fortunately, Kentucky is playing South Carolina (3-2, 0-2 SEC), who cannot be overlooked but is the easiest opponent the Wildcats will play until Missouri next month.
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