The Kentucky Wildcats host South Alabama this weekend as they try to cap off the month of September by improving to a 3-1 record. The Jaguars are bringing in a run heavy offense
to Kroger Field and a defense that has struggled to find success in 2026. Kentucky cannot start sluggish after a big win, they must come out hot and get to a fast start. Here is how Kentucky keeps the momentum going and improves to 3-1 on the season.Kentucky's defense needs to slow down the rushing attack of the Jaguars and get off the field on third down. This is a game where the Wildcats defensive line should control the line of scrimmage. They have been good at limiting explosives in the run game, but they have given up almost four yards per carry. Kentucky has to dominate
the line of scrimmage on Saturday and this defensive line has had a ton of different players flash through three weeks.
The defense may give up some points this weekend, but the offense has an opportunity to have an impressive showing against what might be the worst defense they will face all season. This is another matchup where the Kentucky offensive line can overwhelm the South Alabama defensive line. Teams have had great success through the air on the Jaguars, but they are also allowing five yards per carry on the ground. I think Kentucky can really lean on their run game and expect a big day from Jason Patterson as the staff will probably limit CJ Baxter to maintain his health.
In the passing game, Kenny Minchey can build off his exceptional performance from his first SEC road start. The staff put an emphasis to get DJ Miller going last week, and you got to wonder if they will do the same this week with Nic Anderson. Will Stein mentioned they shortened the play sheet so the offense could play fast and free against Texas A&M. I believe they open it up a bit more this weekend and try different looks to put on film.
Ohio played two quarterbacks against the Jaguars, and they combined to go 21-of-31 through the air for 234 yards and four touchdowns. Tulane's quarterback Kadin Semonza went 14-of-22 for 212 yards and a touchdown in their win over South Alabama. This passing attack from the Wildcats is the best they have seen to this point of the season, they could really struggle against this offensive scheme and all the playmakers Kentucky will feature. It would not surprise me if Minchey has another 300+ yard and 3+ touchdown performance like he had in week one against Youngstown State.
I don't think we see a sluggish, hangover start from the Wildcats on Saturday. This team is connected and Coach Stein has stated that after a big win is when he has to coach his team harder. Kentucky can be efficient in every aspect of the offense and the defense can get a real test of slowing down a spread offense that leans on the running game. I believe the Wildcats dominate this game in a lot of areas, but the talent mismatch on the line of scrimmage will be the main reason this one gets out of hand for South Alabama.
This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: How Kentucky keeps the momentum going and beats South Alabama
