Can these 2 defensive stars stop Lane Kiffin's offensive juggernaut?
When Ole Miss rolls into Kroger Field, they’ll bring one of the most dangerous offenses in college football with them — and Kentucky’s defense will have to rise to the occasion. The defense wasn't challenged very often last week until later in the game when Toledo found some rhythm, but this week they will need to hit the ground running.
Why Ole Miss’ offense is a threat
Yes, last week’s fireworks came against Georgia State, but 81 plays for nearly nine yards per snap and 63 points in under 30 minutes of possession is scary no matter the opponent. That is elite production. Lane Kiffin’s team plays fast, hits explosive plays, and loves to pour it on. If the Rebels get close to 100 plays, they’ll be tough to stop for anyone. Let alone a Kentucky offense who looked inept at times last week. And factor in the revenge, Lane will run the score up if he can. The defense will need to create some havoc, and that comes down to these 2 players.
Key Wildcats to watch: Alex Afari Jr. and Steven Soles Jr.
That’s why the spotlight will be on Alex Afari Jr. and Steven Soles Jr. The pair were electric against Toledo, combining for 16 tackles and three sacks. Soles had two sacks by himself, while Afari piled up 13 tackles and one sack. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and clean up in space will be the deciding factor in whether Kentucky can keep this a one-possession game like so many Kentucky-Ole Miss games in recent history.
How Kentucky can win
This matchup comes down to whether Kentucky’s defense can force Kiffin into third-and-long situations and keep Ole Miss from finding a rhythm. If they keep them behind the chains, the tempo can be ineffective as they won't be able to stack plays on plays. If Afari and Soles can duplicate last week’s effort, or even take it up a notch, Kentucky will have a shot to pull off a massive win.
Offensively, the Wildcats have to hold up their end of the bargain too. Sustaining drives and keeping the defense fresh will be critical. This game has all the makings of a back-and-forth thriller, and recent history suggests it will be close late.
So, Big Blue Nation, it’s simple: Kroger Field needs to be rocking. The defense will need every ounce of energy the crowd can give them to slow down the Rebels’ lightning-fast attack.
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. Ephesians 3:20. #UpTheAlbion