Top 5 things to watch with Kentucky football and Mark Stoops taking the week off

Wright State v Kentucky
Wright State v Kentucky | Michael Hickey/GettyImages

Mark Stoops, Bush Hamdan, Brad White, and the Wildcats are on a much-needed bye week after four consecutive losses, putting them on the brink of missing a bowl game. You could say the bye couldn’t have come at a better time, though Stoops' record after a bye (5-7) leaves a lot to be desired. But with no Kentucky football to watch this Saturday, what should you tune into to satisfy that sports itch or maybe something else? Here are some options, including the first playoff rankings, key matchups, and a few non-sports alternatives.

1. Kentucky Basketball vs Bucknell Bison

Oweh
Nov 4, 2024; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Otega Oweh (0) dunks the ball during the second half against the Wright State Raiders at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

This one’s a no-brainer, right? The Wildcats look to go 2-0 on the season as they host the Bison. Bucknell, who last made the tournament in 2018, is also 2-0 after a Thursday night OT win. You can watch the game on the ESPN+ app by clicking here

2. Alabama vs LSU

LSU football
Oct 26, 2024; College Station, Texas, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (13) throws a pass against the Texas A&M Aggies during the second half. The Aggies defeated the Tigers 38-23; at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images. | Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

The #11 Crimson Tide head to Death Valley for a top-15 clash against the #15 LSU Tigers, with both teams eyeing a spot in the College Football Playoff. Catch the action on ESPN at 7:30 PM.

3. Georgia vs Ole Miss

Ole miss
Nov 2, 2024; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Ole Miss Rebels wide receiver Jordan Watkins (11) takes photos with fans after the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mississippi won 63-31. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images | Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

Ole Miss aims to keep its playoff hopes alive as they host the #2-ranked Georgia Bulldogs. Curious to see how Lane Kiffin’s Rebels stack up against Georgia? The game starts at 3:30 PM on ESPN, giving you time to catch part of it before the Wildcats tip off.

4. Outer Banks

If you’re in the mood for treasure hunts and drama, Netflix’s Outer Banks has you covered. The latest episodes are now available, or, if you haven’t seen any of the four seasons, this is a great time to binge. Outer Banks is rated TV-MA.

5. Santa Tell Me and Hallmark Christmas movies

With Christmas just around the corner, Hallmark is rolling out its signature feel-good movies. Need a quick pick-me-up after a tough football season? Cozy up with someone special and check out their latest at 8 PM on Hallmark, rated PG.

Hopefully, these options help keep the bye-week blues at bay. Have a blessed and happy weekend, everyone! Stick here for the latest in Kentucky news.