The Kentucky Wildcats face an uphill battle as they prepare to take on the Tennessee Volunteers this Saturday night. Neyland will be rocking the 7:45 pm kickoff time, Tennessee will be in their black alternate uniforms and the crowd will be matching them, as the game is a blackout. For Kentucky, coming off three straight losses and struggling with injuries, the Cats are reeling. Tennessee, meanwhile, is racing through the season with its sights set on a College Football Playoff berth. But could the Wildcats pull off a surprise in Neyland Stadium?
Kentucky’s strength this season has been its ground game, not that it will blow anyone out of the water, but compared to the passing attack; the rushing attack is a tier above. As luck would have it, the Volunteers' defense is built to stop the run, ranking among the best in the SEC in rushing defense. Tennessee’s ability to limit opponents on third downs, combined with its top-five national ranking in suppressing big plays, means the Wildcats’ offense will have to get creative to find gaps in Tennessee's defense or face long fields, which is something the offense has struggled with all year.
The Wildcats have also struggled with consistency, especially on the offensive side. Bad penalties and bad play calls have stymied many drives this season. Tennessee’s secondary is vulnerable, however, which could offer Kentucky’s offense some opportunities if we can generate a passing threat. We have heard Brock Vandagriff is in line to start for now, but there is no mention of how much or if Gavin Wimsatt sees the field.
Per a source, Brock Vandagriff will remain the starting quarterback for Kentucky going into the Tennessee game, after not playing the whole 2nd half against Auburn. #BBN pic.twitter.com/QTnahuWlax
— Chris Beasmore (@CBeasmoreSports) October 31, 2024
Meanwhile, the Volunteers have built a well-balanced attack that’s been tough for opponents to handle as usual. Tennessee’s quick-paced offense, which spreads teams out, amplifies the need for good communication, something the Cats have struggled with. The Vols aren’t the most explosive team, but they’re effective at wearing down defenses over time. Controlling Tennessee’s high-paced offense and playing disciplined football will be key to staying competitive for Kentucky. Kentucky has struggled in the recent past with penalties and missed assignments under Stoops and Brad White.
Considering the stats and the stakes for both teams, with Tennessee vying for a playoff appearance, Tennessee has the edge in nearly every category. The Wildcats have been better on the road this year but have yet to beat a Tennessee team that finished with a winning record since the 80s (1984). Can they do it this year? It's not looking likely.
Prediction: Tennessee 41, Kentucky 13