The Kentucky football program has made tremendous strides in recruiting in recent years.

But an area that has been somewhat lagging behind the rest of the recruiting effort is in the offensive line. The lack of consistency from the offensive line in the run game last season led to an underwhelming performance from the Wildcats' rushing attack--something thought to be a strength heading into the season.

Thursday, the Cats played host to one of the top offensive guards in the country in Memphis (Tenn.) Manassas lineman O.C. Brown. Brown, fresh off a visit and fresh scholarship offer from Marshall, met with UK offensive/recruiting coordinator Randy Sanders Thursday afternoon.

"I enjoyed myself," Brown said. "Coach showed us around, showed us the facilities and stuff. I liked it a lot."

Brown has already visited Oklahoma, Mississippi State, Tennessee and Auburn and said UK's facilities are right there with them.

"If it's not equal, Kentucky would be more (so) than everyone else. They tell me it's a great place, not just to go to school and play football. It's a great environment."

At 6-foot-2, 315 pounds, Brown can dunk a basketball--showcasing his extreme athleticism for his size and specializes on getting out on the edge in the run game.

"I would say pulling and driving until the whistle blows are my strengths," Brown said. "I'm aggressive."

In addition to UK, Brown holds scholarship offers from Marshall, Southern Miss, Colorado, Tennessee State and Arkansas State and says so far, he's wide open.

"I'm just looking for whatever school I think wants me the most."

Scouts, Inc. Evaluation

Brown has the size and arm length to play the position. Flashes the athletic ability to play offensive tackle but his height presents problems. Good arm length. May have to lose some weight early in his career and re-distribute. Needs to improve his stance and ability to bend, at times this affects his first step both when blocking down lineman and pulling. Comes up to high on initial movement but has good leg drive and can knock defender off the ball. Tends to narrow base but has the ability to play on his feet and stay off the ground. If initial quick%u2019s and playing with a flat back are corrected he should be a good 2nd level blocker for he displays good pulling ability and balance in space. Has a feel for sealing up inside and doesn%u2018t over extend in space. Shows good explosion when trap blocking. Although he may end up at guard, we believe his ability in pass protection will not be limited to the guard box. With improvement in technique he should be able to pop out and help with wide rushers. Although not consistent does flash explosion and the willingness to finish and punish defenders. Will likely need a red shirt year which will allow him to develop both his body and techniques. If this is accomplished it is quite possible Brown could see early playing and develop into a solid starter the remainder of his career.

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