Every week, you’ll see a strong performer from the previous week of Kansas football spotlighted in this space, and unlike the first two weeks when we featured two defensive Jayhawks, today, we’ll spotlight just one. Another strong defensive performance means we will again go to the defensive side of the ball with this week’s spotlight, this time highlighting Kenny Logan Jr.
On a night when none of the bounces were going the way of the Jayhawks, Kansas needed some big plays. Safety Kenny Logan Jr. provided many of those big plays on defense. The six foot, two hundred and five pound tackling machine from St. Augustine, Florida was at the right place at the right time many times for KU against Nevada.
First things first, Logan’s total stat line: nine tackles, two and a half for a loss, and a forced fumble. And as the game became more intense, Kenny Logan rose to the occasion. He owned the fourth quarter, making his biggest plays in the final frame, on the final three Nevada drives to be exact.
He started off the fourth quarter like a man on fire. On the first play from scrimmage in the pivotal final quarter, Logan got into the backfield and tackled Nevada rusher Ashton Hayes for a loss of five yards. On the very next play, Logan had a big stop after a catch by Wolfpack receiver Jamaal Bell to set up a third and long situation. Unfortunately, Nevada converted and later scored a touchdown to tie the game at 24.
KU had a nice scoring drive after that to regain their seven point lead, and then it was Kenny Logan again coming to the defensive rescue for the Jayhawks. On a big third and five from the Nevada 30, Logan broke through and smashed a scrambling Brendon Lewis, forcing the fifth Nevada fumble of the night. Nevada recovered but was forced to punt when they desperately needed points. Only six minutes were left on the game clock.
Kansas couldn’t salt the game away on the ensuing offensive drive so it was up to Logan and the defense to seal the road win for the Jayhawks. On fourth and one on their own 23 yard line, Nevada needed to convert or go home with a loss. Enter Kenny Logan Jr.
Nevada tried to get tricky and Logan sniffed out the trickery immediately. Jamaal Bell ran horizontally and Logan burst into the backfield and dropped him for a loss of three yards, ending the Wolfpack’s chances at a historic win.
The game probably shouldn’t have been as difficult as it was, but when things are going according to plan, it’s easy. When they aren’t, it’s good to have reliable players that rise to the occasion. Kenny Logan Jr is one such player and Kansas is grateful to have him.
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