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By KEITH TAYLOR

Kentucky Today

LEXINGTON, Ky. (KT) — Kentucky football coach has been impressed with the installation of a new offense following the first week of spring workouts.

“We’re getting the ball down the field better than we have in years,” the Kentucky coach said Thursday during an appearance on Kentucky Sports Radio. “I think you’re going to see everything that I’ve always preached and wanted. You want to see balance. I’m not going to make any predictions. We have to produce and we have to execute.

“It’s going to take some time but to this point, I’m seeing what I wanted: a very aggressive offense. We’re in and out of the huddle quickly, we’re efficient at the line and we’re aggressive. There’s a comfort level with the quarterbacks.”

Stoops has especially been pleased with quarterbacks Joey Gatewood and Beau Allen, along with his team’s backups.

“It’s a hot topic and I understand that,” Stoops said. “What I love about the quarterbacks that are here, they’re just worried about getting better. When you start worrying about other people, that’s never going to work out. You can’t shy away from competition. How effective is the game plan when you’re in there? How are we playing? How are we doing? Are we winning games? Are we moving the football? This is wide open. The best players are going to play. We need to move forward. Pushing the program to another level. That’s our concentration. If you don’t want to compete, don’t come here.”

Stoops added that returning receiver Josh Ali and transfer Wan’Dale Robinson, a former Kentucky Mr. Football standout, have also been impressive this spring.

“Wan’Dale and Josh are playing at a very high level,” Stoops said. “A level we haven’t seen around here in a while. Very efficient, those two guys. Both are feeding off each other and excited about what they’re seeing. There’s a lot of opportunities out there for them and they’re making plays. You feel them out there.”

Overall, Stoops said it’s “hard to contain my enthusiasm right now.”

“In the spring it’s a little different. We’re practicing three days a week. We just got off the practice field and I can’t wait to get back out there Saturday. We’re getting better. I’m very excited about what I’m seeing.”

Clinkscale, Sunrall promoted

Stoops elevated defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale to defensive passing game coordinator and inside linebackers coach has been promoted to co-defensive coordinator.

“Coach Clinkscale has had major input in our defensive scheme since his arrival here at UK,” Stoops said. “He’s not only had a major role in our program defensively but in recruiting as well. … (Sumrall) is more than capable of being a Power 5 defensive coordinator. He has turned down multiple opportunities to do so and stay at his alma mater because he loves this place.”

Keith Taylor is sports editor for Kentucky Today. Reach him at keith.taylor@kentuckytoday.com or twitter @keithtaylor21.