Cats vs Vols

Bigbluemist
Wildcats Thunder Football Recruiting Analyst

VS

If you look at the SEC stat sheet you get the feeling the UK-UT game could make the scoreboard at Neyland Stadium say “TILT” by the end of the game on Saturday.

There is not a doubt UT is talented on defense but let’s take a look at where they rank defensively in the SEC.

Scoring Defense- 8th
Passing Defense- 4th
Rushing Defense- 9th
Sacks- 10th
Red Zone Defense-12th
3rd down Defense- 10th

I don’t think I need to review UK’s defensive stats do I?

The big question with UK is how will they handle 100K fans? UK has not fared well vs. tough road opponents this season. UL, Florida and LSU are games that will not make the 2006 highlight reel. Unlike the games mentioned about UK HAS TO come out of the tunnel and make some positive offensive plays.

A healthy Rafael Little makes a big difference in the UK running game. If UK can run the ball this will allow them to utilize play action and give Andre an extra second or two to get off the pass.

Another big reason UK needs to run the ball is to eat up clock and keep UT off the field. While we like our triplets; Woodson, Burton and Little. UT counters with Ainge, Meachem and Coker.

Can UK beat the Vols in Knoxville? Yea they can, but a lot of things need to break right for UK.

1. Win the turnover game by at least +2.
2. Special teams HAVE to be better than last week. A blocked punt, a return for a TD but something positive needs to happen in special teams.
3. Rafael Little needs another 100 (rushing) 100 (receiving) performance.
4. Jacob Tamme needs to be able to work the middle of the field.
5. UK’s defense has to hold UT to FG’s in the red zone. UT will get their yards. Let’s just hope it’s between the 20’s.

UK will eventually break this 20+ year losing streak to the Vols. Let’s hope It’s this weekend and we cap off a beautiful season with a win over UT!