As Kentucky prepares for a crucial Saturday night showdown against rival Tennessee, the status of the team's offensive engine remains shrouded in uncertainty. Running back Seth McGowan, the Wildcats' leading rusher and arguably their toughest player, is officially listed as questionable, but reports suggest his availability could truly come down to the wire.
A warrior's return, an uncertain future
McGowan's toughness is legendary. Against Texas last week, he left the game with an injury that required a trip to the hospital. According to team sources, once cleared, he "ripped out his IVs" and rushed back to Kroger Field to rejoin his teammates, playing through significant pain in the second half and overtime.
That return underscored his importance to the team. Despite his efforts, Kentucky ultimately fell short, with backup Dante Dowdell getting stuffed on three consecutive goal-line runs in overtime after McGowan was presumably too banged up for those crucial carries.
More doubtful than questionable?
Now, heading into the Tennessee game, McGowan's status is officially listed as questionable. However, a report from On3's Pete Nakos suggests the situation might be more precarious. Nakos indicated that McGowan will be a true game-time decision, with no clear indication yet whether he will be able to suit up.
Kentucky running back Seth McGowan is expected to be a game-time decision on Saturday vs. Tennessee, sources tell @On3sports.
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) October 24, 2025
Has 476 rushing yards this season. Exited Texas game, went to the hospital and returned to finish the game. https://t.co/nJDwK9QeiX https://t.co/qGmJOZb4kF pic.twitter.com/NMNuDFVKR9
This puts Mark Stoops and the coaching staff in a difficult position. McGowan leads the team with 476 rushing yards through six games and is essential to Kentucky's preferred ball-control offensive style, especially against Tennessee's potent offense.
Player safety vs. desperate need
Knowing McGowan's warrior mentality, if there's any way he can play, he will undoubtedly push to be out there. He embodies the fight and resilience BBN wants from their program.
However, the coaches may need to make the difficult call to protect the player from himself. While beating Tennessee and snapping the painful 9-game SEC home losing streak is critical, McGowan's long-term health and future are far more important than a single game, especially given the nature of his injury last week.
His absence would place immense pressure on Dowdell and Jason Patterson to carry the load against a Volunteer defense looking to rebound after a tough outing against Alabama.
Big Blue Nation will be holding its breath until kickoff, hoping to see #3 trot onto the field. But for now, the status of Kentucky's heart and soul remains frustratingly up in the air. We will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.
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