Kentucky (3-5, 1-5 SEC) is fresh off a program-saving road win at Auburn, but the challenge doesn't get easier. The Wildcats return home to face the Florida Gators (3-5, 2-3 SEC) in a rare November matchup in Lexington. Who will get momentum heading down the stretch of 2025 in week 2 of Mark Stoops' "one week missions."
The opening lines for this crucial game have dropped at FanDuel, and Vegas sees this as a razor-thin contest.
Kentucky is visiting Lexington in November for the first time since 1990
This will be Florida's first game in Lexington in November since 1990, and the weather will be a chilly 50 degrees, a far cry from their usual September trips.
- Spread: Florida -3.5 (-104) / Kentucky +3.5 (-118)
- Total (Over/Under): 43.5
- Moneyline: Florida -162 / Kentucky +134
That 3.5-point spread signals that the oddsmakers essentially view this as a toss-up, with the home team (Kentucky) getting the standard 3 points. This game is a true "pick 'em." Both teams are mediocre, and played well below where they should. But both have the ability to win this game. It just depends on who shows up.
It's a fascinating matchup of two struggling programs. Kentucky is looking to snap its humiliating 10-game SEC home losing streak. Florida, meanwhile, is playing out the string with an interim coach after firing Billy Napier last month. They are coming off a respectable 24-20 loss to Georgia. But Georgia is a very physical team. Playing them, and losing a close emotional game could be a big factor in a trip to Lexington the next week.
On paper, Kentucky should have an advantage playing a coach-less team at home. However, Mark Stoops' questionable in-game management and conservative play-calling often negate any clear strategic edge. This game will come down to which team wants it more and which team makes fewer critical mistakes. Can the Wildcats finally give their home fans an SEC win? Or will Florida inch closer to bowl eligibility?
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