By LARRY VAUGHT

Quarterback Morgan Newton was named Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Week after completing 20 of 29 passes for 187 yards and two touchdowns, both career highs, in last week’s 37-12 win over Eastern Kentucky.

Newton guided the team into scoring territory on six of the seven possessions he played.

“I think the Morgan Newton you saw Saturday was light years away from the Morgan Newton you saw in the Auburn game. That progress has been evident in practice the last two weeks,” Kentucky coach Rich Brooks said.

“I see a guy that has always had some confidence but had trouble adjusting to the speed of the decision making. He’s always had an arm but when you worry about not getting sacked and getting the ball out it comes out of your hand funny, which it has on occasion.

“For most part because it didn’t happen as fast (against Eastern Kentucky) as it would in a SEC game, you saw tight spirals, rifle shots and much better accuracy and decision making Whatever happens the rest of the year, he has advanced his progression a lot for the future.”

Could he be as good as any quarterback Brooks has had?

“I don’t think anybody can predict that. You don’t know how much progression he will make. He has the potential to be as good as wants to be or can be, but he still has a long way to  go.”

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