Game Time: Saturday November 19, 4:30 p.m. ET
TV: SEC Network
Live Stream: WatchESPN
The Kentucky Wildcats host the hapless Austin Peay Governors on what looks to be a frigid afternoon in Lexington on Saturday.
The 5-5 Wildcats are on the cusp of making the post-season for the first time since 2010. Mark Stoops’ squad has made a good recovery following their opening week loss to Southern Miss. At the end of Stoops’ fourth season in Lexington, his seat has cooled considerably. The ‘Cats can cement their tangible progress by beating an 0-10 Austin Peay.
In fact, Austin Peay may be worst than their winless record. The Governors have lost their games this season by an average of 23 points. They’ve managed that with a schedule that only includes one top 25 team in FCS (though UT-Martin received votes!). In fact, there may not be a sadder FCS program in the country. Austin Peay has only won three games since the 2012 campaign.
Kentucky features an elite rushing attack this season led by a veteran offensive line on the interior and supported by a stable of great running backs named Boom Williams, Jojo Kemp, and Benny Snell Jr. On Saturday afternoon they’ll face a defense allowing 6.3 yards per rush this season. Barring Rick Moranis becoming Austin Peay’s head coach this week, the Wildcats should win this game easily, and let their starters rest ahead of the rivalry game at Louisville Thanksgiving weekend.
UK’s seniors have come a long way. They committed to Mark Stoops on a truncated six-week recruiting cycle when all he could sell them was hype. They suffered through a two win season in 2013, and then suffered in a different way as they came up short of six wins after starting the season strong in consecutive seasons.
They’re almost there.
Loading comments...