Mondays with Bobby, featuring Mitchell Henry

From Wednesday’s Southeastern Conference media teleconference, comments from Kentucky coach Mark Stoops in regards to Saturday’s game against Western Kentucky,

Mark Stoops

“Just ready for the new season to begin. It’s been an exciting nine months around here. I feel very good about the progress that we’ve made. Our players and coaches have worked extremely hard preparing for the season, so we’re excited about opening with Western.”

Antonio Andrews: “He’s a heckuva player. He does a lot of good things. Obviously a tremendous running back. I’m sure he’ll be looking to catch the ball even more in this style of offense then he has – but he’s a good receiver, he’s a very good runner and punt returner, kick returner, does everything. He’s a very good player, so we’ll have to be on our toes to stop him, that’s for sure.”

Two QBs: “I think they both played very well throughout the summer camp. Both deserve the opportunity to play, so I hope it’ll be to our benefit.”

Matchups: “With Antonio, just like I said, a tremendous player. I think he’s a guy that you always gotta be aware of. I think coach Petrino in the past has always done a good job of getting the ball to the running backs, not only in the run game, but also in the pass game.

“I know they have a very-talented secondary and also a linebacker that’s been a tremendous player the past couple years. Those are some key guys for them.”

Underdogs? Favorites? Neither? “I’m not sure. I’m gonna leave that up to all the experts to decide that. Really, we’re just worrying about ourselves. We have so much to do. We’ve been working hard and improving each day and that’s all our goal is.”

Nerves of the first game: “Just like I tell the players, there’s no need to be nervous or anything like if you do your preparation. We’ve worked extremely hard as a staff. I myself looked into all those things – just simple things. I haven’t been through it, simple things like what are we gonna do with the coin toss, who are captains are gonna be and we’re gonna go about that. Just all the things with the procedure. Once the game tips off, I’ll feel at ease and feel comfortable with it. Just trying to cover my bases in all areas and certainly having my brothers to visit with has been helpful. Those guys know I’m prepared and they just tell me to go with my gut and go with my instincts and I’ll be fine. It’s been helpful.”

Filed under: Football, Talkin’ bout the Tops