Five Things for 2011 Season

1. Returning Starters: You may ask who is returning? While the big play makers left, there is still a lot of talent left for the 2011 season. Having veterans on defense in Danny Trevethan really helps, but with a lot new faces on the d-line it really makes it challenge. Winston Guy is also someone that the Wilcats can depend on to create turnovers in the secondary. As Joker said himself, "We have to create turnovers to fit our style of defense." Switching to the offense, having a veteran offensive lineman really helps out for Morgan Newton and company. As many know, there is a lot of uncertainty about the receiving corps, and having the offensive to protect may help the new faces get open.

2.Morgan Newton : The former-four star quarterback really has a lot of pressure on him in 2011. Being a guy that is irreplaceable makes it really hard for the junior field general. Despite having a veteran offensive line, Newton will have to consistant in order for the Wildcats to win in 2011. However, if his play imporoves the Wildcat may be more of a offensive threat than expected, but if not the struggles may be more than the defense can overcome.

3. Raymond Sanders: The rising sophomore may be able to bring the explosiviness to the offense like Randall Cobb did in the best. Sanders' showed some splash having two consecutive 70 plus yard games against Georgia and Mississippi State. He may be a suprise piece to the puzzle for the offense in 2011.

4. La'Rod King: The rising junior enters this season as the teams leading receiver (3rd last season) returning in 2011. Playing in all thirteen games last season, King added 36 catches, 478 yards, and 5 touchdowns. Being the only receiver that had over 20 catches last season, a lot of pressure will be on King for production.

5. The Rise of the Program: How much will it 'rise'? With addition of of Rick Minter on the defense, the coaching staff seems to be committed to the University of Kentucky. The recruiting factor has gone well so far for the 2012 class, and seems like it will continue to 'rise' in the future. Despite having a year under his belt, what will Joker do in year two to show that he is the guy and the program is truly 'rising'.

Follow Cody McKee on Twitter @Clmckee86