by Pat Turner, goUTSA.com contributing writer
SAN ANTONIO — Kenny Bias had high hopes for a banner senior season.
After an impressive swing where the wide receiver from San Antonio Stevens High School took his game to a higher level, expectations of being a go-to-guy in UTSA’s passing game this season looked highly favorable. With inexperience manning the offense, Bias’ senior presence sorely was needed.
Unfortunately for Bias, things have not gone like he hoped.
Because of two ankle injuries, he’s been limited to four receptions for 54 yards in six games of action, but more importantly, the Roadrunners have struggled in the win column, which is a direct result of missing their big-play threat on the outside.
“I was so excited about this season after the spring,” Bias said. “You know, things happen. It’s been tough, but my teammates have always been there for me. You have to keep punching and swinging.”
Despite the disappointment of being out of action much of the season, Bias remains upbeat.
With two contests remaining in his career, including tonight’s Conference USA home matchup with Rice, he’s looking for a strong finish. He’s still not 100 percent healthy and probably won’t be there the rest of the year. However, Bias feels being 80 percent is enough to show what he can do.
“I want to keep playing for my teammates,” he said. “I want to push through this and play these next few games. It’s important me to play. I came here strong and I want to finish strong. I’m ready to give it a full go.”
Bias has come up with key plays throughout his four years with the Roadrunners, totaling 40 catches for 730 yards and six touchdowns to go along with 72 rushing yards and another score.
Heading into this season, he was UTSA’s all-time leader with 18.8 yards per reception. Although Bias made the highlight reel a few times, including a 96-yard, two-touchdown performance two years ago against No. 13 Oklahoma State, he has had his share of ups and downs.
In addition to being hindered by injuries, off-the-field issues have caused him to miss games. He takes full responsibility for his actions and believes the support from coaches and teammates enabled him to get back on track.
“When I was going through my off-the-field issues Coach (Kevin) Brown was always there for me,” he said. “He would give me scriptures. He was like a second dad to me, always giving me advice. My teammates were there for me, too.”
Through it all, Bias believes the overall experience at UTSA has helped him grow as a person.
“I have done a lot of growing up,” he said. “Things happened and I learned from them. I’m glad I came to school here. A lot of people want to leave San Antonio after high school, but staying here has empowered me to push forward. I did good and I did bad here, but through it all, it’s about the journey and reaching the destination. At first, I was worried about the destination and the results, but I thank God for helping me and letting me be a part of this team.”