Kentucky

In his first spring with the Kentucky Wildcats, veteran quarterback Zach Calzada is already turning heads within the program. With over 2,200 career snaps, 32 starts, and a 23-9 record as a starter, the experienced gunslinger is bringing more than just a strong arm to Lexington-he’s bringing leadership, maturity, and a wealth of experience that could be crucial for Kentucky’s offense in 2025. Offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan praised Calzada’s progress during spring camp, emphasizing the importance of each practice as the former Texas A&M, Auburn, and Incarnate Word quarterback adjusts to a new system. “Every practice is so important for him,” Hamdan said Wednesday. “This is a guy that has played a lot of football but it’s still a new system, and again, in a year one setting. I always like to see quarterbacks that continue to improve and I think he has done a really nice job of that. Consistency with him is going to be critical.” Calzada, who most notably led Texas A&M to a stunning upset over Alabama in 2021, is no stranger to the spotlight. But with Hamdan taking over play-calling duties in a brand new offensive scheme, adapting to Kentucky’s system is his latest challenge. Despite the learning curve, the early reviews from the coaching staff are promising. “As we know, it’s always going to come down to decision-making and accuracy and that’s what we’re striving for him to do,” Hamdan added. Calzada’s track record speaks for itself. Across his college career, he’s thrown for 8,660 yards and accounted for 84 total touchdowns. What’s even more impressive is his mobility-he’s rushed for over 700 non-sack yards, showcasing his ability to extend plays and make things happen with his legs when necessary. Now at Kentucky, he’s competing for the starting role and showing signs that he’s more than capable of leading the offense. With Hamdan placing a strong emphasis on smart decision-making and efficient execution, Calzada’s experience could give him an edge in a wide-open quarterback room. His primary competition could come from in-state native Cutter Boley, who appeared in four games during his redshirt freshman season at Kentucky. As spring practice continues, all eyes will remain on Calzada to see how quickly he can gain command of the offense and solidify himself as the leader of the Wildcats. If his progress continues at this pace, Kentucky fans could be watching one of the more seasoned and productive quarterbacks the program has had in years. Read More….

OGBE CALEB OCHE April 10, 2025

Veteran QB Zach Calzada Impressing Early at Kentucky

Zach Calzada, the well-traveled quarterback now with Kentucky, is already making a strong impression this spring. With over 2,200 career snaps, 32 starts, and a 23-9 record as a starter, the experienced signal-caller brings more than just talent to Lexington—he offers leadership, maturity, and a proven track record that could elevate the Wildcats’ offense in 2025.

Offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan has praised Calzada’s progress during spring camp, noting the importance of each practice as the former Texas A&M, Auburn, and Incarnate Word QB adjusts to a new system. “Every practice is crucial for him,” Hamdan said. “He’s played a lot of football, but this is still a new offense. We want to see steady improvement, and he’s done a great job so far. Consistency will be key.”

Calzada is no stranger to high-pressure moments, most notably leading Texas A&M to a thrilling upset over Alabama in 2021. Now, his challenge is mastering Hamdan’s scheme while competing for the starting job. Early feedback has been positive, with Hamdan emphasizing the need for sharp decision-making and accuracy—areas where Calzada’s experience could give him an edge.

Throughout his college career, Calzada has thrown for 8,660 yards and accounted for 84 total touchdowns. His mobility adds another dimension, as he’s rushed for over 700 non-sack yards, demonstrating his ability to extend plays.

The primary competition for the starting role comes from redshirt freshman Cutter Boley, who saw limited action last season. As spring practices continue, Calzada’s ability to grasp the offense and assert himself as a leader will be critical. If he maintains his current trajectory, Kentucky could have one of its most seasoned and productive quarterbacks in years under center this fall.