5 most memorable moments in Kentucky vs. Louisville football history

The Kentucky-Louisville football rivalry has delivered unforgettable moments for fans on both sides of the Governor’s Cup. However, several victories stand out as true classics from a Kentucky perspective. These games are celebrated for their drama, significance, and the Wildcats’ ability to shine on the big stage.

1. 2007: Stevie Got Loose

The 2007 game is etched in Kentucky lore thanks to one unforgettable moment when Stevie got loose. Louisville, ranked ninth in the country, faced an unranked Wildcats squad led by quarterback Andre Woodson. In a back-and-forth thriller, Kentucky trailed 34-33 with under a minute to go when Woodson connected with wide receiver Stevie Johnson for a 57-yard game-winning touchdown.

The 40-34 upset snapped Kentucky’s four-game losing streak in the rivalry and allowed the Wildcats to have a successful season. The Wildcats ended the season with an 8-5 record and a Music City Bowl victory.

2. 2016: Stopping Lamar Jackson in His Heisman Year

In 2016, Louisville entered the rivalry game ranked 11th in the nation, led by Lamar Jackson. Kentucky, a heavy underdog, shocked the college football world with a 41-38 victory at Cardinal Stadium after forcing a fumble from Lamar Jackson. Stephen Johnson, Kentucky’s quarterback, delivered a career performance with 338 passing yards and three total touchdowns.

The game turned into a thrilling shootout, capped by Jackson’s fumble deep in Kentucky territory late in the game. That turnover set up Austin MacGinnis for the game-winning 47-yard field goal, delivering Kentucky its first win over Louisville since 2010.

3. Historic Beatdown

In 2018, Kentucky entered the contest hoping to have a 10-win season, while Louisville limped through a dismal year with only 2 wins. The Wildcats dominated from the opening kickoff, cruising to a 56-10 victory—the largest margin in the rivalry’s modern history.

Benny Snell Jr. broke Kentucky’s career rushing record with a 100-yard, two-touchdown performance. Asim Rose also went over 100 yards on the ground in a classic smash mouty style, averaging over 11 yards per carry. Kentucky’s defense forced turnovers and stifled Louisville’s offense, delivering a win that emphasized the Wildcats’ rise in college football.

4. Lynn Bowden goes off in 2019

The Cats had to shift to a WR playing QB, and the result was utter domination against Louisville. Bowden ran for 284 yards and four touchdowns. Bowden was just 1 of 2 for yards through the air, but it didn't matter as he carved the Cardinals up.

The Cats rushed for over 500 yards in total on the day, cruising to a 45-13 win.

5. Ray Davis to the house

1 loss Louisville was in the top ten again, and Kentucky threw a big wrench in their bowl plans. Ray Davis scored three touchdowns, including a 37 game winner with 1:02 left on the clock. Louisiville had just scored to tie the game with 2:33 on the clock, so it was a quick gut punch from the Cats.

And that is, in my opinion, the best moment for Kentucky in the modern era over Louisville. The Cats and Cards will once again lock horns this Saturday.