SEC Power Rankings: LSU – Alabama set up for another instant classic

Sep 26, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Stoops gives instructions to his players during the game against the Missouri Tigers in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Kentucky defeated Missouri 21-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

It’s possible to overcome a poor defensive performance, and it’s possible to overcome special teams miscues, but it’s nearly impossible for a team to win when it struggles mightily on both defense and special teams. In fact, that’s a recipe for a blowout, and it’s exactly what happened to Kentucky at home Saturday night.

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The Wildcats actually jumped out to an early start with a defensive touchdown. Corey Johnson picked up a fumble and raced 77 yards to the end zone to give UK great momentum following what had been a long Tennessee drive. Kentucky also forced a punt on the next Tennessee drive, but then allowed seven consecutive scores – six of them touchdowns, including both a kickoff return and a punt return TD – in a 52-21 loss.

Tennessee scored two special teams touchdowns, but Kentucky still allowed 482 yards of offense, split nearly down the middle with 249 rushing yards and 233 passing yards. On the other side of the football, the Wildcats only managed 349 total yards.

Quarterback Patrick Towles threw for 184 yards and a touchdown, but was intercepted for the tenth time this season. Mikel Horton, playing big minutes for the injured Boom Williams, was the Wildcats’ best offensive weapon and gained 109 yards on 14 carries, but it obviously wasn’t enough.

With three straight losses – two via blow outs – Kentucky is now 4-4 overall. Luckily, the Wildcats have four winnable games remaining on the schedule beginning with next week’s matchup with a reeling Georgia in Athens.

Next Game: Saturday November 7 at Georgia

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