Kentucky Football: How To Defeat New Mexico State Aggies

3 of 6

Sep 10, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Jachai Polite (99) forces Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Stephen Johnson (15) to fumble the ball during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Kentucky Wildcats 45-7. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Winning Third Down

One of the most crucial aspects of a college football game is being able to consistently move the chains. Tied with that goal is preventing the opposition from being able to consistency move the chains.

The Kentucky football program has failed in both regards, which makes winning the third downs a crucial endeavor.

Against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles, the Kentucky Wildcats were 3-of-9 on third downs—33.3 percent. Southern Miss, meanwhile, was 9-of-17 on third downs—an overwhelmingly efficient 52.9 percent.

If the Wildcats want to snap this two-game 2016 losing streak, then they must flip those numbers against the New Mexico State Aggies.

Against Florida, Kentucky went 4-of-12 on third downs—once again, 33.3 percent. Florida was almost perfect on third downs, going 14-of-20—an absolutely unforgivable conversion rate of 70.0 percent.

Executing on third downs—as well as preventing the opposition from doing so—is the key to success for the Wildcats in Week 3.

Next: Establish The Run

Home/Kentucky football