As we get closer to the No. 1 Georgia Bulldogs‘ (2-0) matchup vs. the Kentucky Wildcats (1-1), UGA Wire keys in on the best players from Kentucky’s roster.
Maxwell Hairston, CB
Hairston was recruited by the Wildcats in 2021, but didn’t see starting action until last year. Hairston was one of the cornerstones of the solid Kentucky defense, with 66 tackles, a forced fumble, six pass deflection, and a league-leading five interceptions, two that were returned for touchdowns.
Harrison’s remarkable 2023 season earned him a spot on the All-SEC second team. Against Georgia last year, he had eight tackles and a pick. Georgia receivers will have their hands full with him on the other side of them.
D’Eryk Jackson, LB
Jackson enrolled at Kentucky in 2020, already starting eight games off the bat. Ge’s established himself as a reliable starter since 2022, when he filled in for an injured Jacquez Jones. He led the team in tackles in 2022 and 2023, along with 12 tackles for loss, two sacks, and two interceptions, one returned for a pick-six. His 2023 season got him a spot on the All-SEC third team and on PFF‘s All-SEC team.
Deone Walker, DT
Walker has started for the Wildcats since 2022. During his time with the blue and white, he’s been a beast, with 98 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks. He was a part of the Preseason Coaches All-SEC Football Team and named one of the top 50 college football players, according to PFF (subscription needed).
Georgia will be looking to keep their momentum going after a strong 48-3 win vs. Tennessee Tech last week. To do that, Carson Beck will need to neutralize the Kentucky defense. We’ll see these players compete against the Bulldogs at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Sept. 14.
