Shiyazh Pete Shares Insight on New Kentucky Pass-Rushers
The Big Blue Wall’s reconstruct has controlled conversations throughout the offseason, however what about the guys they’re playing in practice? The Kentucky offensive line went through substantial reconstruction, but they have four returning players in the rotation. That’s 3 more than what you’ll find in the outside linebacker room.
JJ Weaver’s prolonged profession concluded following the 2024 campaign, and other edge players quickly did the same by means of the transfer portal. The only recognizable name is Steven “Sack Em” Soles, who just finished his real freshman season. Brad White had his work cut out for him.
Kentucky pulled a pair of players from USC, Sam Greene and Lorenzo Cowan. They also discovered a couple of gems from the lower levels. Kam Olds had a productive 2024 season in the MAC, tallying 7.0 TFLs, six sacks, and an interception at Kent State. If you thought those numbers were eye-opening, let me reveal you Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace’s. He was the Protective MVP of the very best conference in the FCS after publishing 17 TFLs and 9.5 sacks.
The past production exists, however what are the new pass rushers bringing to the table? Instead of asking one of their coaches, I asked the guy who routinely needs to obstruct them, Shiyazh Pete. He singled out three people who posture issues during individually drills.
“Steven Soles, Grace, Mi’Quise, and who else offers me problem? Kam, Kam Olds,” said Pete. “Those 3 really have actually been a trifecta, individuals that provide me the most trouble. They’re really good pass-rushers. I got ta give them credit.”
We’ve seen Soles use his volatility to flex the edge and put opposing quarterbacks under pressure. He put on weight this offseason to withstand the physically requiring play in the SEC. We have not seen the other two in action.
“He plays really hard,” Pete stated of Humphrey-Grace. “He strains throughout the entire play, up until the whistle. I’ve noticed that. And he’s truly working hard to get to the quarterback. He plays it like it’s the 4th quarter, that kind of mindset. I appreciate that.”
Kam Olds has great length at 6-foot-4, however that’s not the part of his game that stands out to the offensive deal with. “He utilizes his hands. He’s really working my hands, at least.”
Kentucky ranked 15th in the SEC last fall with only 24 sacks. The Wildcats have a couple of excellent interior rushers, like Josaih Hayes and David Gusta, but to enhance from last season, those three players should add some extra juice on the outdoors and make life miserable for opposing quarterbacks.