Kentucky’s postseason picture is finally coming into focus. And believe it or not, if the Wildcats can scratch out one more win against their arch-rival on Saturday, there is a clear, and surprisingly decent destination waiting for them.
The SEC enters the final weekend with a logjam. Ten teams are already bowl eligible. Three more, Kentucky, Auburn, and Mississippi State, are sitting at 5-6, fighting for their lives as underdogs in rivalry games against Louisville, Alabama, and Ole Miss respectfully.
A 6-6 record gets you into a bowl game, and they only need one.
The Liberty Bowl path opens up
If Kentucky beats Louisville to hit the 6-6 mark, league sources and analysts are zeroing in on one destination: The Liberty Bowl in Memphis.
Why does this fit?
- Geography: It’s an easy drive for fans, which matters to bowl committees.
- Alignment: The Liberty Bowl typically takes a mid-tier SEC team, and with the playoff likely gobbling up 4-5 SEC schools, the "mid-tier" slots will slide down.
- Flexibility: It avoids the chaos of the ACC-partnered bowls that often reshuffle late in the process.
Is that... good?
Honestly? Yes.
Memphis is a manageable trip. The payout is solid. But most importantly, the extra 15 practices are invaluable for a roster that needs development. We all know how much Mark Stoops values that December work.
The "APR" safety net
Here is the wild card. If Kentucky loses to Louisville and finishes 5-7, they aren't technically dead yet.
Kentucky ranks inside the Top 5 nationally in APR (Academic Progress Rate). If there aren't enough 6-6 teams to fill all the bowl slots, the NCAA dips into the 5-7 pool based on academics.
It’s a lifeline, but it’s a gamble. Nobody wants to back into a bowl game because of their GPA. Last year only one team made it (La Tech) and it was because Marshall had to withdraw.
Saturday decides it all. Win, and you're going to Memphis. Lose, and you're refreshing NCAA spreadsheets hoping for a miracle, or maybe starting a head coaching search.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion