With a 9-game conference schedule on the way, who will the Wildcats be stuck with for good?
The great SEC scheduling debate is over. With a nine-game conference slate officially on the horizon in 2026, the next great debate can begin: Who will be Kentucky's three permanent opponents? In this new format, every team will have three "forever" rivals they play annually, with the other six games rotating. For a program like Kentucky, this decision will define the feel of every football season for years to come.
So, who are the most likely dance partners for the Wildcats? Let’s break it down.
The Lock: Tennessee
This one feels like a no-brainer. The border war between Kentucky and Tennessee is one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in the conference, dating back to 1893. Despite a lopsided all-time record in favor of the Volunteers (85−26−9), the games are often filled with a unique brand of animosity and passion. The geography makes too much sense, the history is too rich, and the fanbases love to hate each other too much. The only hang-up? Tennessee has a long line of suitors, including Vanderbilt, Florida, and Alabama, who all believe they have a claim. Still, it’s hard to imagine an SEC schedule where the Cats and Vols don’t meet.
The contenders: A trio of fits
After Tennessee, things get interesting. Three schools stand out as strong possibilities.
- Vanderbilt: Another geographic rival, the series with the Commodores (49−43−4 in UK's favor) has been far more competitive. For fans, the short drive down I-65 to Nashville is a massive perk. From a competitive standpoint, both programs have historically occupied a similar tier in the SEC, making for consistently winnable, yet meaningful, conference games. This feels like a natural fit.
- Mississippi State: While not a traditional rival, the UK-MSU series has become one of the most physical and surprisingly heated matchups in the conference over the last decade. The series is nearly dead even, 26-25 in favor of MSU. Both programs are on a similar path, facing rebuilds under new coaches. Preserving this cross-divisional contest would maintain a modern rivalry that fans have grown to love.
- South Carolina: The series with the Gamecocks has been defined by streaks and memorable moments. There's a natural respect and competitive fire between the two programs, fueled in part by the recent success under coaches Mark Stoops and Shane Beamer. Keeping this game on the schedule would guarantee a tough, middle-of-the-pack SEC battle each year.
The Longshot: Florida
While the Gators have plenty of other teams they'd rather play every year, Kentucky's recent success in the series—winning three of the last six after decades of futility—has rekindled a spark. It’s unlikely, but the SEC might see value in fanning those flames.
Our prediction? The schedule makers will prioritize geography and history, locking in Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi State as Kentucky's permanent three. What say you BBN?
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 Premiere League soccer. #UpTheAlbion