The Race for Mr. Football

Ashland Blazer's Quinton Baker

It's getting close to the end of the Kentucky High School football season. Most teams will be playing their eighth or ninth game this week. The playoffs are around the corner.

It's almost time to discuss Mr. Football.

Traditionally a senior is named Mr. Football in the state. I like that tradition. I also like the fact that the Gatorade POY can be an underclassman.

At this point I still think Mr. Football is wide open.

Players like Kash Daniel, Rodjay Burns, Riley Hall, Quinton Baker, Devon Key, Noah Hughes and even Ray Zuberer are guys who I believe could argue for Mr. Football.

Usually linemen don't get heavy consideration,  but Woodford County's Drake Jackson and Manual ' Derek Dorsey are having big years.

At this point there are as many as seven games left for these prospects.  Somebody not on this list could explode over the next few weeks. One of these gentlemen could also make his case stronger.

One thing is for certain, this has been a banner year for talent in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Let's enjoy it while we can.

Western Kentucky adds Devon Key

Devon Key is another Kentucky prospect who has made the call to join Jeff Brohm’s Western Kentucky recruiting class. The senior safety shared his reasoning for his recent decision.

Lexington (KY.) Bryan Station safety Devon Key has had a big season leading his team in rushing yards, receiving yards, tackles and interceptions.

The 6-foot-1, 190-pound, Key has rushed for 644 yards and eight touchdowns, caught 28 passes for 547 yards and nine more touchdowns.  Key also has 55 tackles and two interceptions.

With his athleticism and overall talent, Key believes it won’t be long for him to see playing time with the Hilltoppers.

 

“They think that when I come down (to Western Kentucky) and work out if I do what I need to do, I can start,” said Key.

Key felt good about his relationship with the coaching staff at this stage. He believes that Western Kentucky is where he needs to be.

“It felt like I belonged there,” Key continued.  “I like the coaches and the players.  And I like the atmosphere of the games.”

Key chose WKU over offers from Ball State, Miami (Oh.), Navy, Central Michigan and Toledo.

Wood discusses his UK commitment

Walker Wood (#9) eludes Henry Clay defenders

Walker Wood decided to join Kentucky’s 2017 recruiting class late last week.  In doing so, he joined fellow quarterback Mac Jones in the class. The 2017 duo will be competing with current redshirt freshman Drew Barker and 2016 incoming freshman Gunnar Hoak.

But Wood isn’t worried about the competition.  He knows that playing quarterback is a big responsibility and programs want the right person in place to lead their offense.

“Anywhere you go there is going to be competition,” said Wood.  “I love it. And I’m excited to compete.”

Wood jumped on board Kentucky’s class last week because he just felt good about the direction on the program and what his hometown school had to offer.

“I love Coach Stoops and his staff.  I think Kentucky is on a very bright road.  I want to be a part of it,” he finished.

Right now Wood is a part of a very talented and potent Lexington (KY.) Lafayette offense.  Lafayette averages almost 41 points per game.  Through eight games Wood has accounted for 22 total touchdowns and over 2000 yards of total offense from the quarterback spot.

We’ll keep you up-to-date on Walker Wood.

Introducing: South Warren Jr. C.J. Hayes

C.J. Hayes at Indiana, October 17, 2015

For those followers of high school football in Kentucky, C.J. Hayes likely doesn’t need an introduction. The Bowling Green (KY.) South Warren prospect looks like one of the standout 2017 prospects in the state.

Hayes has ideal size for a wide receiver at 6-foot-2, 195-pounds.  But he’s not just a wide receiver.  Hayes plays both cornerback and safety - where he may land when his time at South Warren is over.

One school that has caught his attention is his hometown Western Kentucky Hilltoppers.

“(Western Kentucky) has been showing a lot of interest. They talked to my dad the other day,” Hayes said.  “(WKU) passes it around a lot and it really fits me perfectly.”

Hayes doesn’t believe the interest from the Toppers to be token in nature. He feels like something serious may be brewing between him and Jeff Brohm’s team.

“When they talked to my dad, they said they were going to offer me soon,” he continued.

Other schools that have been in contact with Hayes include Ole Miss, Arkansas, Cincinnati, Louisville, Kentucky, Duke, Florida State, Tennessee, Virginia and Notre Dame.  But what other schools may be close to offering?

“I feel like Kentucky, Louisville and Arkansas (when I visit) are close to offering,” he continued

That visit to Arkansas is scheduled for next Saturday.  Hayes has already been to Ole Miss, Cincinnati, Louisville, Kentucky, Tennessee, Western Kentucky and Indiana on unofficials thus far.

Aside from his great size, Hayes has other assets that are desirable for coaches on the next level.

“My route running, speed and ability to catch in traffic are my strengths. Also my blocking,” he finished.

We will keep you posted on C.J. Hayes.