Chris Rodriguez couldn't find running room at Mississippi State. (Vicky Graff Photo)
Don’t worry about Chris Rodriguez. That was the message from Kentucky offensive coordinator Liam Coen Tuesday as the Wildcats prepare to host Tennessee Saturday night.
Rodriguez has rushed for just 41 yards on 15 carries in UK’s last two games after gaining 768 yards in Kentucky’s first six games. Kentucky ran for just 51 yards against Georgia and 66 against Mississippi State in the last two games — the first time UK had gone consecutive games without 100 yards rushing since losing to Georgia and Tennessee in 2018.
The Cats are now down to eighth in the SEC in rushing after ranking in the top three in the SEC three of the previous five seasons even though UK did run for over 300 yards against both Missouri and LSU.
Kentucky coach Mark Stoops said Rodriguez was dealing with an “issue” last week but would not say what. Tuesday Coen said the star running back looked ready to roll.
“I think Chris has the right mindset this week. I think he knows that he has not been up to par and playing to his standards and our standards,” Coen said.
The offensive coordinator said the junior had a “great practice” both Monday and again Tuesday without having to be berated by Coen.
“You do not have to beat it into him. He knows it has not been good enough,” Coen said. “I believe he will come out with the right mentality to play a good game Saturday night.”
8 Responses
We sure need him.
I think C-Rod’s problem is Coen has not been calling his number enough. That has to change come Saturday. Get him rolling and UK’s offense will thrive.
I don’t know what it is Pup but something has not been right
Something smells in the locker room…….
Has the right mindset? Does that mean he had not had the right mindset?
This is very confusing.
I wonder whether the idea of locker room problems has merit.
I didn’t get “don’t worry” out of his comments. Frankly, I worry…
You are just a worry wart, Connie!!!!!
A junior? I’d forgotten. We have several headliners who could return for another year… We’ll see.
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