SEC Power Rankings: Alabama in class by themselves, LSU sliding fast

Nov 14, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Patrick Towles (14) passes against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the second half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Vanderbilt won 21-17. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Following a 21-17 loss to Vanderbilt in Nashville, the Kentucky Wildcats have now lost five straight games. The defeat at the hands of the Commodores was particularly painful.

“It was a very difficult loss — heartbreaking for our team,” Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops said after the game, according to the Associated Press. “We thought our team played with a lot of energy, a lot of passion, a lot of heart. The game comes down to a lot of critical plays — a few decisions with myself that could sometimes turn the outcome one way or the other.”

Stoops has now recorded a five-game losing streak in each of his three seasons in Lexington.

Quarterback Patrick Towles was under constant pressure from a strong Vanderbilt defense. Towles completed only ten of 26 passes for 67 yards and was sacked twice. The junior signal caller also threw an interception – his 13th of the season. It was the sixth consecutive game in which he’s thrown at least one pick. Drew Barker replaced Towles and was 5-for-8 passing for 60 yards with a TD and an interception. Barker has been named the starter for next week’s game against Charlotte.

On the bright side, Boom Williams gained 115 yards on 13 carries in his first action since Oct. 31, and JoJo Kemp added 53 yards and a TD for a rushing attack that gained 225 yards on 37 carries (6.1 yards per attempt).

Now 4-6, Kentucky’s backs are firmly against the wall. The Wildcats must beat Charlotte next week and find a way to win Nov. 28 against Louisville to avoid a sixth consecutive losing season and a fifth straight year without a bowl game.

Next Game: Saturday November 21 vs. Charlotte

Next: Missouri