Kentucky Wildcats head coach Will Stein explained that the Wildcats’ limited player availability was a major factor in his decision to go for a two-point conversion in their 35-34 overtime victory over South Carolina on Saturday night.
Kentucky entered the game with seven players listed as out, including key contributors wide receiver DJ Miller and linebacker Tavion Wallace. The other unavailable players were linebacker Alex Afari, who became ineligible following a recent court ruling, defensive back Grant Grayton, long snapper Cole Marszalek, offensive lineman Aba Selm, and offensive lineman Jay Clark.
With a depleted roster and limited depth, Stein and the Wildcats opted to go for the win rather than kick the extra point and extend the game into a second overtime. Quarterback Kenny Minchey connected with Willie Rodriguez on the successful 2-point conversion to secure the victory.
“We decided right at the beginning of overtime (to go for two). The momentum kind of swung back to them after regulation. I did a poor job with the clock management towards the end. That was really bad by me.
“So, it felt like if we were able to go down there and score, our best chance to leave this place with a win was to go for two and go for the win,” Stein told Tom Leach after the win. “And great execution by our guys, great protection check by Kenny to get him protected, to step up in the pocket, deliver it back on a hitter line-type throw, really with the toe tap, and yeah, the rest is history.”
Following the game, Stein also provided several injury updates as Kentucky prepares for its upcoming matchup against LSU.
Defensive back Jaden Smith left Saturday’s game with an injury that appeared serious. Along with running back Jason Patterson and linebacker Antwan Smith exiting the game, Stein also revealed that defensive back Aaron Gates was a late scratch. Gates had been expected to play but was ultimately not ready to return to the field.
“Jaden Smith went out, which was unfortunate towards the end,” Stein said. “We’re low at star (linebacker). Aaron Gates…we projected him to play. He wasn’t able to go today.
Stein also addressed Miller’s absence, revealing that the wide receiver was at home and that some unfortunate developments had occurred over the past few days.
“Obviously, DJ (Miller) was at home. We had some stuff happen over the last few days. It was very unfortunate, and so we just kept fighting,” said Stein.
The Kentucky head coach said the team expects to release an injury report later this week, providing further updates on players who are dealing with injuries.
With LSU up next on Saturday, Stein’s primary focus is getting as many players healthy as possible or as close to full strength as they can be ahead of the SEC matchup.
Kentucky will certainly hope to have key contributors such as Miller and Wallace available as the Wildcats look to build on their thrilling road victory over South Carolina.
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