
Three standout players from the University of Kentucky Wildcats football program—tight end Brenden Bates, offensive lineman Jeremy Flax, and wide receiver Tayvion Robinson—are set to showcase their talents at the 78th annual Hula Bowl.
This prestigious college football all-star game is scheduled for Saturday, January 13, at the UCF FBC Mortgage Stadium in Orlando, Florida, with kickoff at noon ET, broadcast live on CBS Sports Network.
Brenden Bates
Hailing from Cincinnati, Brenden Bates has been a consistent presence for the Wildcats over five seasons. As a tight end, he participated in 58 games, starting 25, and accumulated 26 receptions for 272 yards and two touchdowns. Beyond his on-field contributions, Bates demonstrated academic dedication, earning a degree in consumer economics and family financial counseling in August 2022, followed by a second degree in communication in December 2023.
Jeremy Flax
Detroit native Jeremy Flax has been a pivotal component of Kentucky’s offensive line, known as the “Big Blue Wall.” Over three seasons, he played in 36 games, starting 24. Flax’s performance was instrumental in the offensive line’s recognition, including being listed on the midseason honor roll for the Joe Moore Award, which honors the nation’s top offensive line. Notably, he was named the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week and Southeastern Conference Offensive Lineman of the Week after grading at 87% with five knockdown blocks in a victory over No. 22 Florida. Academically, Flax earned a degree in community leadership and development in December 2022 and completed an undergraduate certificate in social work in December 2023.
Tayvion Robinson
Tayvion Robinson, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, transferred to Kentucky in 2022 after three seasons at Virginia Tech. As a wide receiver, he played in 60 career games, starting 56, and recorded 194 receptions for 2,604 yards and 15 touchdowns (14 receiving, one punt return). Robinson also contributed significantly on special teams, with 67 punt returns for 639 yards. During his tenure at Kentucky, he achieved three 100-yard receiving games and amassed 1,049 receiving yards, placing him 33rd on the university’s all-time receiving yards list.
The Hula Bowl’s Significance
Established in 1946, the Hula Bowl is renowned for featuring top college football talent and has been a stepping stone for numerous players advancing to professional leagues. The event attracts scouts from the NFL, XFL, USFL, and CFL, providing participants with a platform to impress at the next level. The game’s rich history includes appearances by legends such as Deion Sanders, Dan Marino, and Drew Brees.
Kentucky’s Legacy in the Hula Bowl
The Wildcats have a tradition of sending talented players to the Hula Bowl. In recent years, athletes like defensive back Brandin Echols and defensive tackle Phil Hoskins participated in the 2021 edition of the game, showcasing Kentucky’s consistent development of NFL-caliber talent.
Looking Ahead
Participation in the Hula Bowl offers Bates, Flax, and Robinson a significant opportunity to elevate their profiles ahead of the professional draft process. Their performances could enhance their prospects of joining the ranks of Wildcats alumni who have successfully transitioned to professional football. Fans and scouts alike will be keenly observing their contributions during the game, anticipating the impact these players might have at the professional level.