Bowden Still Missing (UPDATE: Bowden Cleared)

[Matt Dillon]

I couldn't disagree more, John. I believe he's going to be an instant impact player, much like Randall Cobb. I think he's going to make a big difference in the team this season.

[johnkyblue]

Are there any other SEC schools that have a huge amount of hype over a freshman? How many?

[Brasslock]

I am really excited he qualified and is with the team. I have absolutely no idea what kind of physical shape or conditioning he has maintained, or the extent of stress he's been under. He has to be physically ready to play. He hasn't experienced the speed or physicality of play at this level. If half of the reports I've read or heard are true, he is an exceptionally talented young man. I'm sure Stoops isn't going to push or rush him at this point. It's hard not to expect a bit of magic when he takes the field, but I want him to be ready. It will take him at least a couple of months, and maybe more. How long was Cobb here before he hit the field? I think he was here in January. (I could be wrong.)

[George]

Are there any other SEC schools that have a huge amount of hype over a freshman? How many?

Are there any other SEC football programs whose fans have to grasp at the smallest things for optimism?

Go piss in someone else's Cheerio's, John. We're trying to enjoy this.

[Uncle Dave]

I'd rather have the guy than not have the guy....we need weapons. He played QB in HS so he's going to have to learn a new position, probably slot. How long will that take? Maybe work his way onto the return teams. IF we get 1000 APY from this guy his first year, I'll be thrilled.

[johnkyblue]

Are there any other SEC football programs whose fans have to grasp at the smallest things for optimism?

Go piss in someone else's Cheerio's, John. We're trying to enjoy this.

We are in the best spot we've been in with the the other ~60 players that aren't true freshmen, and coaches in a very long time and much better off than several other SEC programs. Your post would be better on the Vandy forum.

I'd be happiest if he redshirted, showing he wasn't needed, but if he doesn't have the RS I'd take 100 APY, especially if it included a big play that won a big game.

[Old School]

Bowden practiced with the team today.

He was out there in jersey #1 as a WR and practicing as a punt returner.

[WildcatRick]

Bowden practiced with the team today.

He was out there in jersey #1 as a WR and practicing as a punt returner.

Outstanding news!!

[Blue Heaven]

I'd rather have the guy than not have the guy....we need weapons. He played QB in HS so he's going to have to learn a new position, probably slot. How long will that take? Maybe work his way onto the return teams. IF we get 1000 APY from this guy his first year, I'll be thrilled.

It should be easier for a qb switching to a wr. They know what the qb wants and they understand the defense.

[Catsrock]

Whether he is ready to contribute this year or not he was considered the best recruit in the class. If we were excited when he committed we should probably be excited that he's made it here.

[Matt Dillon]

Whether he is ready to contribute this year or not he was considered the best recruit in the class. If we were excited when he committed we should probably be excited that he's made it here.

I agree, 100%, Catsrock.

[RV]

...IF we get 1000 APY from this guy his first year, I'll be thrilled.

I would hope so. If that occurs he'll be All-SEC.

[Los Gatos]

We are in the best spot we've been in with the the other ~60 players that aren't true freshmen, and coaches in a very long time and much better off than several other SEC programs. Your post would be better on the Vandy forum.

I'd be happiest if he redshirted, showing he wasn't needed, but if he doesn't have the RS I'd take 100 APY, especially if it included a big play that won a big game.

I've said this before but to repeat: If he is as good as advertised, he will go pro after three years at UK. If you redshirt him, he only plays two years at UK instead of three.

[teamchemistry15]

Are there any other SEC schools that have a huge amount of hype over a freshman? How many?

What about that QB at Bama last year?

[boomdaddy]

Bowden becoming eligible is a big deal. Offenses always need players that bring a spark and can make a big play. After losing a starting WR to transfer (still a head scratcher to me), having that type of player come in and provide that spark is a big deal. Unlike the days of Cobb, he doesn't have to carry the team on his shoulders. He doesn't have to be a starter. If he is as good as his reputation, he will find his way into the end zone and he most likely won't stay four years. He didn't come here to red shirt, he came to play.