Kentucky Wildcats, SEC, dwarf others in NBA prospects

Sep 20, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Patton Robinette (4) is upended after running for a first down during the first half against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

After what seems like an eternity, Kentucky football is back with a big game versus Vanderbilt. It is a chance to end that SEC losing streak plus increase the win total of the last two years. So what needs to happen for Kentucky to win? Let’s take a look.

"Why Kentucky Might Win: Florida had a power running game that brought the UK safeties up. Vanderbilt can’t run the ball a lick. Last week the Commodores averaged over five yards per pop against South Carolina with a few nice dashes, but for the most part, they struggled to get moving. Kentucky isn’t going to be a brick wall up front, but it should be able to do just enough to not have to do anything quirky to deal with a Vandy O that’s averaging just 284 yards per game. The Commodores are way too mistake prone, struggling with turnover margin and penalties. As long as UK can play a relatively clean game, Vandy will beat itself. Who To Watch Out For: Kentucky appears to have its guy. Patrick Towles struggled when given a shot as a freshman, took last year off to save his eligibility, and has come out roaring with 377 yards against UT Martin to open up the year and 369 against Florida. He gave up three picks against the Gators, and he needs to be more accurate hitting just 54% of his passes over the last two games, but he has the 6-5, 240-pound size, good mobility, and the arm to push the ball all over the field. He’s looking like the franchise star the program has been waiting for. What’s Going To Happen: The Wildcats should look rested and sharp after two weeks off, and while Vanderbilt will get some yards and points, it’ll screw up just enough to give UK a few easy moments to put the game away in the second half. Prediction: Kentucky 38 Vanderbilt 30"

Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

So what is up with Alex Stump? Besides getting ready for the Commodores, that may be the biggest question of Mark Stoops’ mind. Ohio State recently offered bot a Florida and a Kentucky commit and the Florida commit was quick to speak about his allegiance to the Gators. So far, Stump has been mum on the Ohio State offer. Interesting.

"– Ohio State made aggressive plays at two in-state prospects recently, Kentucky commit Alex Stump and Florida commit Jerome Baker. Baker, who is Scout’s #2 prospect in the state and was officially presented as a U.S. Army All-American this week, told Scout’s Bill Greene that he will visit the Buckeyes this weekend for an unofficial visit, but also qualified it with his commitment status to the Gators: “It’s always exciting to go and watch an Ohio State game,” he said. “I’m still committed to Florida though, and my situation is good with them. I’m going to be taking my official visit on October 11, and that’s the LSU game, which will be a fun time. I am 100% committed to Florida.” As for Stump, a 6-foot-3, 190-pound four-star prospect, has been quiet on his intentions. Speculation has been that this is the offer he wants and a flip may be coming, but he has not publicly stated his intention to visit the Buckeyes or any other plans with recruiting."