The SEC Network analyst provides an expert's take on what he saw from the Wildcats and their upcoming opponent, Ole Miss.
While many fans saw an ugly win, SEC Network analyst Cole Cubelic looked deeper and saw the blueprint. In his post-game breakdown, Cubelic detailed the "indicators" that Mark Stoops is successfully reinstalling the physical, smash-mouth identity that his best teams were built on. We break down the offense more here, including a shocking PPG stat under Bush Hamdan.
Cubelic's analysis provides a technical look at a team whose health is seemingly not a concern, and he focused on the positives in the trenches.
On the Kentucky offense:
Cubelic noted the "foundation of the run game is there," specifically praising the "gap schemes" and the push from the center and right guard. He saw the tight ends as effective all-around helpers. While he believes the running backs' "vision & feel has room for improvement," the scheme itself is working. Regarding the quarterback, he sees the arm talent but emphasized that "consistency has to be there," especially over the middle. Read more on Zach Calzada's historicaly bad day here.
On the Kentucky defense:
He described the defense as "hard," "rugged," and "tough," highlighting the defensive line's penetration. Cubelic pointed out that the front seven "adjusted well" and "didn't run themselves out of plays," a sign of disciplined football. He identified a couple of coverage concerns but concluded with the most important takeaway: "Good news is, what I saw have indicators of what I think they want to get back to & what they want to be." That is music to Mark Stoops' ears.
On Ole Miss:
Cubelic was impressed with the Rebels, calling their quarterback "super cool" and "never rattled." He noted the QB "layers the ball extremely well" and identified the tight end usage as the "key on offense." He believes the middle of the offensive line needs work but praised defensive monster No. 51 and the edge rushers. His final assessment: "Talent is there & can still get healthier. Ramps up quick next week."
Seems like Mark Stoops is getting his wish of imprinting that slow, physical style. But will it work against Ole Miss?
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time, he spends time with his family, and watching Premier League soccer. Romans 12:12. #UpTheAlbion