Tennessee moves on this week to another rivalry game with both sides coming off of frustrating losses. The Volunteers will head to Lexington to face Kentucky, which came up just short of an upset bid over
the visiting Texas Longhorns. Tennessee is coming off of a mistake-filled trip to Tuscaloosa, where Alabama get the better of the Volunteers, 37-20.
Both sides are desperate for wins, particularly Tennessee. The Volunteers now have no wiggle room left if they want to make a return trip to the College Football Playoff. Taking care of business here — a place that they’ve had a handful of close calls at over the last several seasons — is now objective No. 1.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Tennessee has opened as a 9.5 point favorite over Kentucky. The total, bogged down by a Kentucky side that is more defensive minded, sits at 53.5.
“I think their offensive line, their experience, physicality is a big part of their identity,” Josh Heupel said on Monday. “Defensively, again, big and strong up front, multiple in front structure, coverage rotation. They’re a good football team. They play a tough schedule. You always do inside of this league, but they played a tough one.”
Tennessee won an ugly one against Kentucky last season in Knoxville, 28-18. They haven’t lost in Lexington since 2017. The Wildcats have been no slouch so far this season at home, taking both Ole Miss and Texas to the wire. Senior running back Seth McGowan will lead the way for Mark Stoops’ group, along with Lexington’s own Cutter Boley at quarterback. Boley has thrown four touchdowns against four interceptions after taking over for Zach Calzada.
Kentucky’s offense ranks just 103rd nationally. Tennessee moved fifth overall in total offense, putting up 511 yards per game.
With everything still in front of them, it will be interesting to see how the Vols bounce back. There’s plenty to clean up here with penalties, while consistency on the road remains a real problem. Away games this weekend and in Gainesville remain on the schedule, along with massive matchups against Oklahoma and Vanderbilt.
Kickoff in Lexington is set for 7:45 p.m. ET on SEC Network.
