The Cats have the mid-week off after their Tennessee win. After a physical battle with Tennessee, they get a rare full week between games to rest up, heal the bumps and bruises, and get amped up for the stretch run.
They don't take the court again until Saturday against Florida in a massive showdown that will be for first place in the SEC.
But just because the Cats aren't playing doesn't mean you can tune out. There are massive games tonight and tomorrow that directly impact Kentucky's seeding, resume, and SEC title hopes.
Here is your viewing guide while the Cats get some much deserved rest.
Tuesday night
#15 Vanderbilt (19-4, 6-4) vs. Auburn (14-9, 5-5)
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- TV: SEC Network
- The Rooting Interest: Vanderbilt
If you are a Kentucky fan, you can look at this in two ways. A Vandy win makes Kentucky's ugly loss to them look a little better on the resume (a "quality loss," as much as I hate that term). But more importantly, a Vandy loss gives Kentucky more breathing room between them and the mess that is the middle of the SEC pack. Honestly? I’d lean toward rooting for Vandy here to keep that loss looking respectable.
Wednesday night
Alabama (16-7, 6-4) vs. Ole Miss (11-12, 3-7)
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- TV: SEC Network
- The Rooting Interest: Alabama
Same scenario as the Vandy game. Kentucky was handled by Alabama earlier this year. If the Tide keep winning, that victory looks better and better on the resume. Plus, Ole Miss is spiraling, and we don't want them finding any rhythm before the SEC Tournament.
Missouri (16-7, 6-4) vs. Texas A&M (17-6, 7-3)
- Time: 9:00 PM ET
- TV: SEC Network
- The Rooting Interest: Missouri
This one is tricky. Kentucky lost to Missouri, so if the Tigers win, that bad loss at Rupp looks slightly less terrible. But strategically, Kentucky still has to play Texas A&M. If the Aggies lose tonight, it drops them down the standings and gives Kentucky a cushion in the race for a top-4 seed (and the double bye). BBN should want separation from the Aggies. Go Mizzou.
#17 Florida (17-6, 8-2) vs. Georgia (17-6, 5-5)
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- TV: ESPN2
- The Rooting Interest: Georgia
This is the big one. You never really want to play a team right after they lost (they tend to be angry), but the math here is simple. Florida is currently alone in first place at 8-2. Kentucky is right behind them at 8-3. If Florida loses tonight, the Cats and Gators are effectively tied at the top. That means Saturday's game isn't just to tie them, it's to take the outright lead by a full game over them.
Quick Hits
- Arkansas vs. LSU: Root for LSU. The Hogs are lurking right behind UK. We need them to stumble. Plus, seeing a Cal team lose a game they probably shouldn't have makes a lot of people feel good.
- Tennessee vs. Mississippi State: Root for State. Obviously. Always root against the Vols.
So even with the Cats taking a little post-Super Bowl break, there is plenty for you to be watching.
Grab the remote and enjoy the stress-free basketball.