Kentucky football’s secret weapon? Analytics point to surprising strengths

Computer models point to strong defense and special teams for the Cats, offense not so much

As Kentucky fans count down the final days before the 2025 football season kicks off, analytics are offering a revealing glimpse of what lies ahead. National metric analyst Kelley Ford projects a blueprint that may not thrill highlight-seekers but could spell success: Kentucky’s path runs through defense and special teams.

The surprise comes in the third phase of the game. Traditionally inconsistent, special teams is suddenly projected to be among the best in the nation. Ford’s model ranks Kentucky’s unit 12th nationally with a 91.1 rating. At the center is punter Aidan Laros, whose booming leg has become a hidden weapon. In Mark Stoops’ preferred field-position style, flipping the field repeatedly isn’t just helpful—it’s a difference-maker. Elite special teams mean shorter fields for the offense and longer ones for opponents.

Meanwhile, the defense is once again Brad White’s signature. Despite turnover in starters, the Wildcats enter at No. 28 nationally with an 82.9 rating. That puts them firmly in the “reliable and dangerous” category, capable of taking the life out of explosive opposing offenses. For a program that prides itself on toughness and depth, it’s another testament to White’s ability to reload year after year.

But the elephant in the room is offense. Ranked just 78th nationally, it lags well behind. That doesn’t mean failure, but it does crystallize identity. This year’s Cats will look to suffocate opponents on defense, win the field-position battle with special teams, and rely on the offense to avoid mistakes and strike opportunistically.

The formula is old-school and unforgiving, but it will be the key, as this is the only way Stoops knows. If the offense can raise its level to complement the other two phases, Kentucky won’t just compete—they’ll win consistently. Big Blue Nation should be prepared for close, grinding games where punts are cheered, field position matters, and toughness prevails. It may not always be pretty, but it could be very effective. Or it could be a 4-8 disaster again. We will find out soon.