Commentary

Florida will need to neutralize Kentucky's Woodyard

Originally Published: October 17, 2007

By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

QB Andre' Woodson and his offensive co-stars deserve all the accolades they're receiving in the wake of Kentucky's shocking upset of previously top-ranked LSU. But how about some love for the second-half effort turned in by the much-maligned Kentucky defense? Sure, surrendering 37 points in a game hardly seems praiseworthy. However, the Wildcats defense pitched a shutout during the final 18:49 of regulation, which afforded Woodson & Co. the opportunities they needed to mount the comeback.

It took all 11 Wildcats defenders to put the clamps on the Tigers' offense down the stretch. But it didn't take much film study to recognize WLB Wesley Woodyard as the biggest difference maker. Woodyard fits the mold of what I like to call a "screen-jumper" -- the type of player who keeps jumping into the picture even when you're not looking for him. These rare breeds are seemingly always in on big plays, and their passion for the game is easily distinguishable in their tireless effort.

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