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Kentucky Football: Keys To Victory Against Southern Miss

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 21, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats running back Stanley Boom Williams (18) celebrates with wide receiver Dorian Baker (2) during the game against the Charlotte 49ers in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats running back Stanley Boom Williams (18) celebrates with wide receiver Dorian Baker (2) during the game against the Charlotte 49ers in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 28, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Drew Barker (7) runs the ball against the Louisville Cardinals in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Louisville defeated Kentucky 38-24. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Drew Barker (7) runs the ball against the Louisville Cardinals in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Louisville defeated Kentucky 38-24. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Drew Barker

Whether fair or foul, Drew Barker’s first start at quarterback will be the biggest test of his career. He’ll be going toe-to-toe with a high-caliber quarterback, a high-quality defense, and a capable road opponent.

If the Kentucky football program hopes to open the 2016 season at 1-0, then it’ll need Barker to lead it past the Southern Miss Golden Eagles.

Barker appeared in four games during the 2015 season. The results varied, with him ultimately recording 364 yards, a passing touchdown, two interceptions, a rushing touchdown, and a win over the Charlotte 49ers.

The hope in Week 1 is that Barker will play a smart and responsible enough game for his weapons to help him win.

Barker has six gifted wide receivers in Jeff Badet, Dorian Baker, Blake Bone, Garrett Johnson, Tavin Richardson, and Ryan Timmons. He also has one of the most promising tight ends in the country in C.J. Conrad.

Barker has weapons at his disposal, a coach who’s invested in him, and a team that needs this win.

must read: Six must-win games from the 2016 season

The pressure is on.

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