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Lynn Bowden could be Kentucky’s X Factor

Lynn Bowden looks on during a fall camp practice – The UK freshman could be a secret weapon heading into SEC play. 

 

Since his late arrival to campus, Wildcat fans have been anxiously waiting to see what star studded freshman Lynn Bowden can do on the football field. Bowden played limited snaps in the season opener, leading to the freshman creating quite the stir after cryptic tweets were sent from his Twitter account.

 

Stoops and Gran planned to get him involved early vs. Eastern Kentucky, but Bowden was forced to watch the final three and half quarters in the locker room. Stephen Johnson broke containment and scrambled down the sideline. While that play was taking place, Bowden peeled back and landed a hard hit on an EKU player. Video review deemed the play illegal contact to the head and neck area, resulting in an ejection.

 

Prior to the targeting call, Bowden teased fans with his potential as a kick returner. His early exit led to Kentucky fans wanting more and if Tuesday’s after practice interviews signal anything, it is more involvement for the dynamic playmaker.

 

One guy that will be happy to have him out there is quarterback Stephen Johnson. The UK senior has “Juice” Johnson, Benny Snell, and C.J. Conrad as reliable weapons on offense, but the addition of Bowden could give the UK offense a wrinkle it has been missing thus far.

 

“We have so many plays just scripted for him and set up for him,” said Johnson. “I just can’t wait to see what he can do Saturday.”

 

In addition to Johnson, you know Eddie Gran wants to get No. 1 as many touches as he can. The UK offensive coordinator has admitted to being stubborn with the Wildcat formation and even said that he might never run it again. However, you have to think that Bowden will at least get a look in that formation before Gran is willing to completely rule it out. Despite saying he may never run it again, Gran said on Tuesday, “We’ll see how it goes. It will always be in the game plan – it just depends on how people are defending it.”

 

Gran’s comments lead you to believe we will see the Wildcat formation and you can almost be assured that the package will not be as basic. Regardless of how Kentucky uses Bowden, whether it is as a slot receiver or taking direct snaps, the former four-star will definitely get an opportunity to showcase his talents.

 

“When Lynn is in there he’s going to have his opportunities,” said Eddie Gran on Tuesday. “Hopefully we get the ball in his hands.”

 

As for Bowden, he wouldn’t give any indication of how he will be used, just smiled and said, “That’s something for the spectators to see by their selves”

 

Follow Shawn Smith & Go Big Blue Country on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @gbbcountry 

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