Recruit Marques Skinner will be at Saturday's Blue-White Game to watch his brother, redshirt freshman tight end Mikkel Skinner, play. (X Photo)
Saturday’s Blue-White Game will give redshirt freshman tight end Mikkel Skinner a chance to show how he fits in coach Will Stein’s offense.
One person who will be watching the game along with UK fans is Marques Skinner, the UK tight end’s younger brother from Greer, S.C.
The 6-foot-3, 260-pound Marques Skinner is a dual sport athlete like his brother as he’s also a power forward/center in basketball along with a tight end/defensive end in football.
He recently took an unofficial visit to Kentucky but he had already seen the UK facilities because of his brother’s commitment.
“They have made a couple of changes in the facility but it was already nice,” he said. “At practice the tempo was very good. The coaches were so attentive to detail and that really stood out to me. The energy was really good and I liked how hyped the players were.
“My brother told me a few things. It is a big change with the new staff and how the playbook has changed. So is the way they use the tight ends as playmakers more.”
Mikkel Skinner is a tight end who will line up wide sometimes and can run post patterns. Marques Skinner is different.
“What I do a majority of the time is help blocking. I might chip block and run a 2-yard out, I stay in the range of 3, 5, 7, yards routes.”
Marques Skinner grew up playing in the defensive line before transitioning to the offensive line. He takes pride in his blocking at tight end but also thinks he could do more than just be a blocking tight end.
“I follow the footsteps of my big brother. We compete a lot no matter what it is. We might compete to see who can just get out the door the fastest,” the younger Skinner said.
He gave up basketball this year so he could train and work out more for football. He visited Virginia Tech, Furman and Wake Forest earlier this spring.
Marques Skinner got his offer from Kentucky two years ago when Mark Stoops was still the head coach and Vince Marrow was recruiting him like he did his brother.
“My brother would love for me and him to be on the same team again but he also wants me to pick the best school for me. He would love it if I came to Kentucky,” the junior tight end said. “I really think this is going to be a breakout season for him. Last year he was just getting used to the program. I can see how he has grown as a player. He is more responsible and consistent in what he does. He is always at the field doing something to get better.”
Marques Skinner’s goal to make his college choice during the summer.
“But if that is not what happens, I will take my time and do what is best for me. With spring ball coming up more (college) coaches will come to see me,” Marques Skinner said. “I also have a few camps I want to go to, including Kentucky.”
