SB Nation - Alfonso Smith

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- Cancun Challenge Championship Edition

Truzenzuzex — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:41:42 -0000

This is just a quickie to catch everyone up on the goings-on in the Wildcat world.

The Kentucky Wildcats will face the Stanford Cardinal tonight at 9:30 for the championship of the Cancun Challenge. I am hearing that Patrick Patterson was walking around in a boot today, but that doesn't mean much as players often do this when they have minor as well as major injuries in order to facilitate faster healing.

We will have more on the Stanford-UK matchup later today, as always. The news follows the jump.

The Biggest Myth in College Basketball | Dime Magazine
Mike Miller has already taken issue with this "biggest myth" myth. I guess if you are a Cal hater, you will welcome this. If you are a UK or Cal fan, you will likely scoff. And if you are just a neutral observer, you could go either way.
It's Meltdown Time... - Roll 'Bama Roll
Folks, this is hilarious stuff. Georgia's meltdown is typical, but LSU's is absolutely epic. I just wish I could say that I had never seen one like it before, but I have -- among UK fans. Well, at least we can say that we are not the only ones who occasionally kick sanity to the curb and embrace madness.
Losing streak to Vols almost a 2nd thought | KentuckySports.com
The Kentucky football team has already gotten some big monkeys off its back, winning at Auburn for the first time since 1961 and at Georgia for the first time since 1977.

Now here comes the 800-pound gorilla.

Heh. Indeed.
Rich Brooks irate over retirement talk | CollegeFootballTalk.com
"You know what? I'm not going to answer anything about that anymore," Brooks said. "I'm going to talk about Tennessee. None of that junk. This is not the appropriate forum. We have a huge game with a lot at stake, and we'll address those issues at the appropriate time."

Heh. Brooks thinks this talk of retirement is bull***t.
Andy Katz's Daily Word: NCAA continues to investigate, Renardo Sidney continues to wait - ESPN
Sources said that the NCAA legal counsel has been in the loop and it would defy logic from the NCAA's standpoint if the organization purposely used this as a stall tactic to help a legal case that could be forthcoming. If Sidney were to sue to force an injunction, then the NCAA could use that lawsuit as a way to use discovery to get some of the information that it still covets. The case has been completely tossed upside down with it moving from the enforcement wing to the eligibility center, which the head of that operation, Bill Saum, has been removed from his post. This has slowed the case down by forcing others to get involved who haven't worked on the case from the outset. The NCAA won't say anything about Saum's departure except that it was a personnel matter.

The strange case of Renardo Sidney gets stranger.
Cats' rout leaves room for doubt | KentuckySports.com
"I'm not worrying about the score," he said after UK beat Cleveland State 73-49 in the Cancun Challenge semifinals on Tuesday. "I'm worrying about playing the right way."

I can see why.
Kentucky's Brooks hot, LSU's Miles not - SEC Blog - ESPN
Kentucky coach Rich Brooks: Let me preface this by saying I’m not trying to push Brooks out the door. He’s as classy as they come and a true pro, and there’s no doubt in my mind that the SEC is a better place as long as he’s a part of it. But if Brooks does decide to walk away after this season and turn the keys over to Joker Phillips, he can do so with his head held high and knowing that the Kentucky program is in exceedingly better shape than the way he found it.

Great stuff by Chris Low. Read the whole thing.
Wildcat Blue In a Sea of Orange: UK Basketball Preview - Know Your Enemy: Stanford Cardinal
Op-Ed Contributor - When Dreams Take Flight - NYTimes.com
On a Thanksgiving Day flight, a tired attendant finds an unlikely spot to get some sleep. This is darn funny.
Round Ball Round Up 11.25.09 - Team Speed Kills
Catch up on all the SEC basketball action.
Alan Cutler " Alfonso Smith Makes Good Works Team
Doug Williams on Morgan Newton - Kentucky Sports Network
Site Names Rick Pitino Its "Turkey of the Year"
Haha! Love it.
Kentucky Tradition: Your Mascot is a What?
Oh, my. That makes Western Kentucky's Big Red look positively pedestrian.
Stanford-Kentucky Preview - Nov. 25, 2009 - NCAA Division I Mens Basketball - CBSSports.com
Walter's Wildcat World » Video: Calipari with brief explanation of the DDM Offense on EA Sports NCAA 10
Pretty brief, but well illustrated for those unfamiliar with the DDM.
Derrick Miller Pleads Guilty in Kentucky Tickets Scam

Kentucky Football: Giving Thanks to Those Deserving Much More

Ken Howlett — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:12:02 -0000

More photos » by John Amis - AP

Kentucky head coach Rich Brooks gives his thanks, now it's my turn.

Browse more photos »

Still basking in the afterglow of unexpected victory after Kentucky's 34-27 triumph over the Georgia Bulldogs on Saturday, I suddenly find myself in a thankful mood. Thankful for not only the UK win, but upon reflection, thankful for those who have propelled the football program forward in 2009, instead of settling for a "rebuilding" year. It would have been easy for the team to call it a year after starting quarterback Mike Hartline was injured six games ago, but this squad has persevered.

We've settled for less than acceptable results in the football program for far too long around these parts, but now, with four straight bowl games imminent, and a possible 4-4 SEC mark (and gasp, second place in the SEC East) looking UK squarely in the face mask, it's time to give up the kudos for those who go to battle every Saturday ... to those who fight through pain and injury ... and to those who sacrifice. A little recognition for achievements not enjoyed at Kentucky in a very long time is also in order, so after the jump, join me in giving some props to the warriors who are right for the fight ...

I'm thankful that Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart didn't fire Rich Brooks after year three, even though nearly the entire fan base, along with the bulk of media members, were calling for his termination -- Love Barnhart, or hate him, that decision alone will forever keep him in my good graces. Take a bow, Mitch.
I'm thankful UK has learned the art of the comeback victory -- Since mid-season of 2006, a total of 42 games, Kentucky has orchestrated 12 fourth quarter comeback victories. This season alone the 'Cats have comeback three times to win games: Louisville, Auburn, and Georgia. Prior to mid-season of '06, one has to go back to 1991 to find 12 more UK fourth quarter comeback victories ... a span of 170 games -- How many times over the last couple of decades have I uttered, "Only at Kentucky," after the 'Cats let another sure victory slip away? Suffice it so say, a lot, but recently that phrase has been replaced by, "How 'bout them 'Cats"? Thanks to the UK web-site, "Cat Scratches," for the great info!!
I'm thankful Derrick Locke wears the blue and white -- Coming off what can be a career-ending ACL injury, Locke has been nothing short of phenomenal for the 'Cats this year. The Hugo, Oklahoma native is racking up yardage in nearly every offensive category: 821 yards and five touchdowns rushing the ball; 221 yards and two touchdowns catching the ball; 518 kick-off returns yards, and oh yeah, one touchdown. That's 1,560 all-purpose yards and eight touchdowns. Take a bow, Derrick.
I'm thankful Philip Fulmer didn't decide to recruit Randall Cobb until it was too late -- Cobb has been equally fabulous for the Wildcats this season. Also accustomed to remaining in motion during football games, Cobb has racked up 436 yards and nine touchdowns rushing the ball; 403 yards and four touchdowns catching the ball; 292 punt return yards, and one touchdown; 302 kick-off return yards; and finally, 46 passing yards -- Cobb's totals come to 1,479 yards and 14 touchdowns. Does anyone really believe if Cobb had not played on this year's team, that the 'Cats would be sitting on seven wins? Take a bow, Randall.
I'm thankful linebacker Sam Maxwell patiently waited his turn -- Maxwell, a senior stuck behind a litany of superlative linebackers over the last three years, has taken the UK defensive stalwart mantle as his own. All Maxwell does is lead the team in interceptions with five; lead the team in solo tackles with 41; he's second on the team with 73 tackles; he has 5.5 tackles for loss; seven pass breakups; and two forced fumbles. He is ubiquitous, he is omnipotent, he is First Team All-SEC in '09, or I want somebody's head on a big blue platter. Take a bow, Sam.
I'm thankful for the Kentucky offensive line -- Zipp Duncan, Brad Durham, Justin Jefferies, Christian Johnson, Stuart Hines and Jorge Gonzalez have been nothing short of season-saving. This group of fighters have paved the way for Kentucky's 2,158 total yards on the ground this season. The six primary ball-carriers for the 'Cats - Locke, Cobb, Alfonso Smith, Moncell Allen, Donald Russell, and John Conner have rushed for a combined 1,975 yards on 376 carries, good for a 5.2 yards per carry average. And make no mistake, a considerable amount of the credit goes to UK's veteran trench warfare practitioners. They have also done a remarkable job of protecting the UK quarterbacks, allowing only 14 sacks through 11 games. Outstanding considering the youth and inexperience of the Kentucky signal-callers. Gentlemen, take a well-deserved bow!
I'm thankful for junior college transfers --- Defensive end DeQuin Evans is second on the team with 10.5 tackles for loss, and he leads the team with five sacks. Replacing suspended All-SEC performer Jeremy Jarmon, Evans was placed firmly on the hot seat with expectations of greatness following him onto the field. Evans, while not "great," has been a very solid addition to the UK defensive line ... and I'm satisfied that we haven't seen the best he has to offer. Also, coming to Lexington via the JC route was wide receiver Chris Matthews. The highly rated Matthews was thought to be the potential savior of the receiving corp, and after a rough start, including a demotion, Matthews has played very well, along with earning praise for his blocking ability. He's second on the team with 29 catches for 299 yards, and two touchdowns. JUCO guys, take a bow!
I'm thankful linebacker Micah Johnson didn't heed the beckoning call of the NFL -- Johnson, while playing with plantar fasciitis for most of the year, leads UK in tackles with 84 (36 solo). He's also contributed 4.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups, and one sack. Take a bow, Micah.
I'm thankful linebacker Danny Trevathan has two more years of eligibility remaining -- Trevathan, billed as the next great UK linebacker, has not disappointed. The youngster is third on the team with 69 tackles (36 solo), and four tackles for loss. Take a bow, Danny.
I'm thankful defensive lineman Corey Peters has taken his turn to shine -- All Peters has done is lead the 'Cats with 11 tackles for loss, and six quarterback hurries. He's also contributed four sacks. UK fans were expecting Peters to be good, and after a "middling" start to the year, Peters has come on strong of late. Take a bow, Corey.
I'm thankful freshman receiver La'Rod King has such soft, supple hands -- The North Hardin product has leap-frogged over several more experienced receivers to earn starting time, mostly due to his ability to catch the ball, and run the right routes. He's made only 10 catches on the year, for 142 yards and one touchdown, but he's made those receptions recently, and he's snagged a few off-target throws which changed the complexion of the game. Most recently, his one-handed (and left-handed) 21-yard touchdown reception against Georgia on Saturday. "Stickum", he don't need no stinkin' "stickum". Take a bow, La'Rod.
I'm thankful freshman quarterback Morgan Newton opted for the 'Cats, instead of the Cards -- After the injury to Hartline, UK fans were frothing at the mouth to see the high school All-America lead the 'Cats, and while expectations were waaaaay overblown for what the young man could accomplish, Newton has played solidly. The Carmel, Indiana native has thrown for 539 yards on 52-90 passing (57.8%). He's limited mistakes, i.e. turnovers (only three interceptions), and led the 'Cats to three tough SEC road wins (Auburn, Vandy, and Georgia) for the first time since Jesus was preachin' in Omaha. Take a bow, Morgan.
I'm thankful running back Moncell Allen got his academic house in order -- Allen's skull-rattling hit on Georgia kick returner Branden Smith to begin the third quarter, and the resulting Matt Roark fumble recovery, turned the tide in UK's favor Saturday. Allen has been excellent for UK all year, but his finest moment came on that play. Take a bow, Moncell.
I'm thankful Georgia coach Mark Richt turned a blind eye to UK players, and Georgia natives, defensive backs Trevard Lindley and Randall Burden; linebackers Sam Maxwell and Shane McCord (he of the game-clinching INT); and wide receiver/special teams performer Matt Roark -- Not good enough for the 'Dogs ... read the scoreboard, coach.
And finally, I'm thankful head coach Rich Brooks has stuck around Lexington long enough to record a 30-20 won-loss mark over the last four years, the best four year record for any UK football coach since 1950-'53 (Paul Bryant). Brooks has also deftly directed the 'Cats to four straight seasons of at least seven wins for the first time since the 1909-'12 seasons. A win over UT on Saturday and he's SEC Coach of the Year, at least in my book. Take a bow, Papa Brooks.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats, beat the Vols!

Kentucky 37 EKU 12: After-Action Report

Ken Howlett — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 23:54:02 -0000

More photos » by James Crisp - AP

Kentucky's Morgan Newton made strides in UK's 37-12 victory over the Eastern Kentucky Colonels.

Browse more photos »

The Kentucky football Wildcats (5-4, 1-4 SEC) proved to be resilient in today's 37-12 victory over their Richmond neighbors, the Eastern Kentucky Colonels (5-4, 5-3 OVC). With Kentucky head coach Rich Brooks deciding just before the game that UK's man-on-a-mission, Randall Cobb, would sit this one out due to a thumb injury, rookie quarterback Morgan Newton put together his best effort to date. Greatly aiding Newton in his quest for consistency were a group of formally inconsistent receivers -- Led by Chris Matthews' seven catches, eight different 'Cats caught passes today. And with star running back Derrick Locke sidelined with a bum knee, Kentucky's back-up runners plowed through the Colonel defense to the tune of 5.3 yards per carry.

I do want to add a hardy congratulations to the EKU Colonels. They represented their school well today with tough, clean play. I wish them well for the remainder of their season.

For a more detailed look at the points of interest for UK partisans, join me after the jump:

As noted, UK quarterback Morgan Newton played a solid, some might say, excellent game today. Newton was 20-29 through the air for 187 yards, and threw his first two passing touchdowns as a Wildcat. Coach Brooks had this to say about UK's star-in-early-development:

"Newton has improved a tremendous amount each week in practice. Eastern is not an SEC defense, but he showed he has the ability to read through his progressions, and protect the football."

Newton, instead of locking onto his hot read, scanned the field for his open receiver, which paid huge dividends with his 16-yard touchdown pass to under-used (and second option) tight end Maurice Grinter. All day Newton read his routes much more effectively than he has all year -- That's called progress.
Chris Matthews, who is still adjusting to the speed and intensity of major college football, replaced Cobb with aplomb this afternoon, nabbing seven passes for 56 yards (8.0 yards per reception) and one touchdown -- A touchdown where Matthews made a serious play for the ball. There is simply no excuse, other than inexperience, for Matthews to not excel at the SEC-level. He has the size, and physical attributes to be a go-to receiver, and hopefully today he took a positive step toward that end.
North Hardin alum LaRod King showed he just may be ready to make a difference in UK's offense. The freshman receiver caught four passes for 41 yards (10.3 ypr). He has played well when asked, I say he should be asked more often.
The magical disappearing/reappearing act of receiver Gene McCaskill made a timely breakthrough today with four catches for 33 yards (8.3 ypr).
Filling in admirably for Derrick Locke, capable running backs Moncell Allen and Alfonso Smith ran a combined 26 times for 122 yards (4.7 yards per carry). Each back recorded a touchdown.
Causing Commonwealth to buzz with excitement in the fourth quarter was the electric play of freshman running back Donald Russell -- Russell caught the Colonels napping with his 79-yard touchdown scamper (the longest UK rushing touchdown since 1998). Most impressive to coach Brooks, though, was Russell's 13-yard gain later in the fourth quarter, in which the talented tail back displayed a real ability to change directions while running at full speed. Russell is a down-hill runner with power. A dangerous combination for future UK opponents.
Linebacker Sam Maxwell continued his great play with yet another interception (which set-up the Newton to Matthews touchdown toss). That makes a team-leading four picks for Maxwell on the season. I sense an All-SEC nod for the senior LB.
Sophomore defensive back Cartier Rice also posted an INT today, picking off a Colonel hail Mary.
Junior defensive end DeQuin Evans led the 'Cats with 3.0 tackles for loss. The JUCO transfer continues to improve.
Redshirt sophomore defensive back Taiedo Smith led the team with 6.0 tackles.
UK's heralded offensive line held strong today, giving Newton time to throw, and opening holes for the running backs.
After being bullied last week by Mississippi State, Kentucky's defensive line recovered nicely this afternoon. They pressured EKU quarterback T.J. Pryor into only 9-28 passing for 137 yards. The Colonels gained 127 yards on the ground, but rushed 32 times (4.0 yards per carry) to attain that number.
Overall, EKU gained only 264 total yards on 14 first downs, compared to UK's 27 first downs and 444 total yards. Even considering the talent difference, those are numbers most UK fans should be happy with.
Kentucky was 9-17 on their third down conversions, while EKU was only 6-15. Those stats are as they should be -- A big, Big Blue advantage.
UK's special teams continue to hand out head-aches like Halloween candy -- A missed field goal (which was tipped), and a Colonel score on a fake field goal.
Kentucky set a school record today for most consecutive non-conference wins with 18.

After an understandably slow start , the 'Cats, behind the play of Morgan Newton, put away the Colonels with 30 points in the final three quarters (as they should have). Now, the goal is to get healthy. Vanderbilt on the road is UK's next test, and UK's next must-win.

Injuries coming out of today's contest look like this -- Tight end T. C. Drake has a serious groin injury; Linebacker Sam Maxwell has a thumb injury (x-rays negative); Cornerback Trevard Lindley "tweaked" an ankle late in the first half. Brooks theorized Lindley may have tore some scar tissue; we'll know more tomorrow.

The word from Rich Brooks on Cobb and Locke -- Locke should be ready to practice on Tuesday, making him likely to play next week versus Vandy. Cobb's thumb injury (he's in a cast), along with the fact that he's considerably bruised-up, portends a Cobb-watch for 'Cat fans in the upcoming week.

Mike Hartline update -- Hartline participated in practice last week (in limited duty), and coach Brooks will be looking this week at Hartline's maneuverability within the pocket. The junior signal-caller may see action next week at Vandy.

Newest Wildcat Fan

My wife Jennifer gave birth Monday to Carly Nicole, our third girl. All are doing well!

Thanks for reading and Go 'Cats!

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- The Gates of Delirium

Truzenzuzex — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:15:56 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

Coach looks a bit excited here. Robic, not so much.

Browse more photos »

The flu bug has assailed the football Wildcats, and the prospect of watching John Wall finally lead the basketball Wildcats into battle has me delirious with both pleasure and pain. It drives me crazy when so many players are hit with injury and illness all at once, and I suppose I should be thankful that we are not going into the Vanderbilt game this weekend. But at the same time, it drives me nuts that we seem to wind up in this same situation every year at this time. Maybe it's everybody, but it just doesn't seem that way.

Moving on to basketball, UK welcomes John Calipari's alma mater, Clarion University, into Rupp Arena tomorrow night. We'll have much more on that in due course, but I highly recommend this Jerry Tipton article (even to the anti-Tipton crowd), which has lots of great background on Calipari's time at Clarion, and how it helped shape him into what he is today.

I am a big fan of coaches playing their alma maters, particularly when they are small schools like Clarion. It may not continue for Calipari, though, but I have to admit, I do like the practice.

Speaking of practice, how is that Dribble Drive Motion offense working out for the 'Cats? About like Calipari predicted it would early on -- balls flying everywhere but in the basket, turnovers, etc. It will get better, and when it does, this team will be really dangerous.

And now, for the news:

UK Basketball News

Red-hot rivalry ready to burn across the Kentucky bluegrass | Sports News Images and Videos
Up the road in Louisville, some are immune to the Kentucky hype.

"They had the same buzz two years ago," Louisville athletics director Tom Jurich says. "Remember when they were recruiting eighth-graders?"

Oh, Tommy Turtleneck with the jab -- on that's probably going to come back and land squarely on his own jaw.
Vitale: Could Self, Calipari square off for title once again? | Sports News Images and Videos
1. There is the Rick Pitino soap opera down in Louisville. Pitino became the victim of an alleged extortion plot by Karen Syphers, who now faces criminal charges.

Uh, it's Sypher, Dick, not "Syphers."
High expectations follow Wall to UK | The Kentucky Kernel
"John is very good," freshman forward DeMarcus Cousins said. "Everything you hear, everything on paper is true. He is good, he’s not overrated at all. Everything is good."
Lindley Continues to Progress
Three key players returned to practice on Wednesday, offensive guard Christian Johnson, linebacker Micah Johnson and tailback Alfonso Smith, after missing Tuesday’s practice because of illness. However, eight other Wildcats who missed Tuesday because of new injuries or illnesses also did not participate on Wednesday.

I have no idea what we'll see on Saturday.
SEC preview: Cleared to play, Kentucky to fly off with Wall - NCAA Division I Mens Basketball - CBSSports.com
My affection for John Wall is well-documented, and I'm glad the NCAA cleared him last week if only because I'm eager to watch the freshman point guard play college basketball. Can't wait. But I must tell you I was struck by the insanity of the system as I sat in the press box at Boone Pickens Stadium late Saturday and watched Oklahoma State play football without star receiver Dez Bryant.

I'm not sure what Parrish is exercised about here. Dez Bryant lied, deliberately. That's wrong, and as it turns out, the lie is explicitly a violation of NCAA by-laws. Lying is bad. Parrish shouldn't be excusing it. On the other hand, I think declaring Bryant permanently ineligible is way over the top. Hopefully, the appeal will find a more fitting punishment.

UK Football News

Newton finding his way as UK's starter | KentuckySports.com
Wildcats’ King trying to hold on as WR | courier-journal.com | The Courier-Journal
"He ran the wrong route, but he made a play," said Joker Phillips, UK's offensive head coach and wide receivers coach. "And if you run the wrong route, you'd better make a play."

Ran the wrong route. Seems to be the story of our wide receiver's lives.
Kentucky Sports Radio " The Colonels Are Coming! The Colonels Are Coming!

Other UK Sports News

None today

NCAA Sports News

Three years later, NBA and NCAA Basketball benefit from age limit
In defense of the age limit. We have seen precious little of this.
Before They Were Coaches: Part I (SEC) – LostLettermen.com
This is pretty cool. You should read it.
Don't Bet On It!: Around the SEC - Dawg Sports
Gillispie watches Doc's team practice
I guess Billy is done with Kentucky now.
Louisville basketball starts strong, then handles Bellarmine 88-65 | courier-journal.com | The Courier-Journal
Vanderbilt Sports Line: Gary Parrish Thinks We're Going to Do Worse Than Kentucky and Tennessee......and Florida...and South Carolina
Ever the Vanderbilt fan, I'm not going to definitively state where we'll end up due to my fear of jinxing the most anticipated season in my fairly limited Vanderbilt basketball memory. But I will say that I think we'll end up better than 5th. Florida and South Carolina are like the majority of first dates. They looked great upon first sight, but then you actually sit there and look at them and you realize they're incredibly flawed. That's not saying Vanderbilt isn't, we've got a few weaknesses (defense). But I think I'm justified in saying that our weaknesses are less glaring than theirs.

I think that Vanderbilt is likely to finish better than fifth. In fact, I think they are more likely to finish third than fifth.

Other News of Interest

Well, that’s, interesting … " The HoopScribe's Blog
ESPN.com is reporting that women’s basketball pioneer Nancy Lieberman will be the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks’ D-League affiliate team in Frisco, Texas.

As my dad says, "How's about them apples?"
ESPN wants to bid for March Madness? - Beyond the Arc - msnbc.com
ESPN says it’d be open in bidding for the rights to March Madness if the NCAA opts out of its 11-year, $6 billion contract with CBS this July.

I think Mike is right -- economically, it makes no sense.
John Clay: Europe suddenly an appealing path - John Clay - Kentucky.com
Brandon Jennings' early NBA start — averaging 22 points and 5.3 rebounds through Milwaukee's first three games — will prompt more prep superstars to spend a year overseas, rather than in college, before becoming eligible for the NBA.

Maybe. The question is, will it be enough to matter?
Bluegrass State Basketball has some interesting stuff today.

The Daily Schadenfreude

Duke guard Smith slapped with two-game suspension - NCAA Division I Mens Basketball - CBSSports.com
Duke guard Nolan Smith will sit out two games because he played in an unsanctioned summer league.

A Duke player? Running afoul of the rules? Oh, my, I'm shocked... Shocked! -- but only at the fact it was even reported.

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- ULM Edition

Truzenzuzex — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 16:16:22 -0000

This edition of the BBDM is dedicated almost exclusively to the ULM-Kentucky game, and a few other football-related links. This is a huge game for Kentucky coming off a big win at Auburn, and UK cannot take the Warhawks lightly -- they are just too good for that.

Lets get right to the links:

Midseason 2009: Which Way Kentucky? - Team Speed Kills
Things are looking up for the Wildcats right now, but a better defensive effort is the only way to get to eight wins.

Nice analysis by Team Speed Kills.
State-Journal.com - Can Fat Cats be Good Cats?
Long-suffering UK fans should be well aware that Fat Cats rarely equate to Good Cats. Despite the clear strides made in the UK program under Rich Brooks and his coaching staff, I would still argue that the Wildcats struggle to handle success.

I struggle to call 3-3 "Fat Cats."
Warhawks, Wall highlight weekend
Locke not a lock- UK star tailback Derrick Locke has been upgraded to probable for tomorrow, with a mild MCL strain. Rich Brooks isn't crazy about giving Locke an abundance of touches Saturday, so look for the Cats to come out firing and try to build an early lead.

I would rather see Alfonso Smith come in and pick up the load. I worry about Locke's durability.

Kicking it with Kentucky's Randall Cobb - SEC - ESPN
"He is the ultimate playmaker and leader and as exciting a football player as I’ve ever been around," Brooks said. "He’s almost taken it upon himself to carry us on his shoulders in the fourth quarter the last two games."

Chris Low talks with Randall Cobb, football player.
Quarterback plot thickens for UK, Louisiana-Monroe | courier-journal.com | The Courier-Journal
Lovers of mystery might want to tune in Saturday when the University of Kentucky football team hosts Louisiana-Monroe. There are sure to be deceptions and red herrings, unforeseen plot twists and characters whose roles change throughout the night.

Nothing like two teams with quarterback questions.
Auburn players say losing streak will end | Dothan Eagle
The Tigers are 5-2, still in the mix for the SEC West crown — with a whole lot of wins and a few prayers — and by no means discouraged with their season to date heading into tonight’s primetime showdown with No. 9 LSU in Baton Rouge.

I guarantee a win for the Tigers. I predict a win for the version from Auburn.
Tom's Links
Tom Leach has a few links for today's game.
Tom Leach - Kentucky Football, Kentucky Basketball, UK Football, UK Basketball
Take a listen to Tom's podcast of Frank Hoffman of Louisiana-Monroe and Dana O'Neil of ESPN.
UK Football Fan: Bowl Projections? Not yet.

Go Cats!!

UK Football: Mid-Season Accolades

Ken Howlett — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:14:46 -0000

More photos » by Butch Dill - AP

Randall Cobb, doing it all.

Browse more photos »

With Kentucky coming off a season-saving, come-from-behind 21-14 victory over Auburn on Saturday, we find ourselves at the mid-point of the season. The first six games of the 2009 season have regaled us with many great individual performances, several disappointing developments, and a record about where most (in the preseason), thought it would be. So, in keeping with the positive vibes surrounding UK athletics at the moment, let's honor those players and units that have achieved beyond the expected:

Most Outstanding Offensive Player: Randall Cobb (Sophomore Do-It-All Dynamo) -- The Alcoa, Tennessee native has simply been electric for nearly the entire season. Cobb has ran for 239 yards (7.5 yards per carry) and three touchdowns, as well as being a danger as a receiver; 24 catches for 322 yards (13.4 yards per reception), and another four touchdowns. In an effort to get the ball in his hands as many times as possible, the coaching staff has Cobb returning punts (although I'm not happy about it). He's hasn't broken-off a long one yet, but he's averaging a healthy 8.9 yards per punt return (3rd in the SEC). Cobb is also averaging 129.5 all-purpose yards (rushing, receiving, and returns) per game (5th in the SEC).

Not in recent memory has UK possessed such an extreme talent. Cobb is a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and with his exceptional speed, elusiveness, and explosiveness he has become option No. 1 in the Kentucky offense. Enjoy the "Cobbinator" while we have 'im!

Honorable mention goes to junior running back Derrick Locke. Coming off major knee surgery, there were question marks about his ability to maintain his incredible burst and overall speed, but Locke has posted some very strong numbers this season, rendering the medical questions null and void. Locke has rushed for 459 yards (4.6 ypc) and three touchdowns, and he's once again proving to be a real asset catching the ball out of the backfield with 16 receptions for 128 yards (8.0 ypr). In addition, he's returned 12 kick-offs for 385 yards (32.1 ypr), and a touchdown. Locke leads the SEC in all-purpose yards with 162 yards per game.

Locke does a splendid job of countering Cobb's "escapability" with a power/speed running game. Lucky us, Locke and Cobb have one more season together!

Outstanding Defensive Player: Micah Johnson (Senior LB) -- Johnson was thought to be the defensive leader of this team prior to the season, and he hasn't disappointed. He currently leads the team in tackles with 52 (5th in the SEC), to go along with 4.5 tackles for loss and one sack.

Solidifying himself as the best defensive player of the first half of the season, Johnson came up huge Saturday at Auburn. His 14 tackle effort was the impetus behind him being named the SEC Defensive Player of the Week. Johnson's combination of size, strength, and quickness make him a ball-chasing holy terror, almost impossible to stop one-on-one. And when he locks his highly sensitive radar onto the ball carrier, it's time for the trainer.

Honorable mention goes to junior linebacker Sam Maxwell -- Maxwell has been excellent, especially on passing downs. He's recorded 36 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and an incredible five pass breakups, to go along with two interceptions.

Maxwell has shown Micah Johnson-type pursuit ability, and an uncanny knack for being around the ball.

Most Improved Offensive Player: John Conner (Senior fullback) -- Conner has been outstanding since arriving at UK, but I had to find a way to honor his dedication to perfecting the art of blocking. Conner's incredible effectiveness at providing room to run for UK's Locke, Alfonso Smith, Randall Cobb and Moncell Allen, makes him a valuable commodity to coach Rich Brooks. Conner, a 5'11", 240 lb wrecking ball of a fullback deserves much of the credit for the improved performance of the running game in 2009. He consistently clears a wide swath of turf for the ball-carriers, and has proved to be a reliable runner (15 carries for 47 yards) and pass catcher (11 receptions for 89 yards) out of the backfield.

Honorable mention goes to the offensive line -- Left tackle Zipp Duncan, left guard Christian Johnson, center Jorge Gonzalez, right guard Stuart Hines, and right tackle Brad Durham have paved the way for UK's talented ball carriers like a bulldozer clearing powdery snow. The penetration the linemen have gained, has at times, been almost comical ... at least to UK fans. They have collectively cleared a path for the fifth ranked rushing offense in the SEC (186.5 yards per game), and in UK's two most recent contests (versus South Carolina and Auburn), the O-line allowed Kentucky to rush for a combined 487 yards. Additionally, UK ran for 133 yards against an Alabama defense giving up an average of only 63.3 rushing yards per game. On the season, UK's backs have rushed for 1,119 yards (4.5 ypc) and 11 touchdowns, and just as importantly, UK's quarterbacks have been sacked only six times ...

... Saaaalute! To Kentucky's "big-uglies."

Most Improved Defensive Player: Danny Trevathan (Sophomore LB) -- Last season in mostly special teams duties, Trevathan accounted for five tackles and a blocked kick (versus Georgia), but this season the sophomore has made the most of his opportunity while playing alongside Micah Johnson and Sam Maxwell. Trevathan is third on the team with 39 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, and one pass breakup. In UK's last outing versus Auburn, Trevathan did his finest MJ impression, recording 14 tackles.

We said in the preseason that this kid could be the next great UK linebacker, and thus far, he's on the fast track.

Pleasant Surprise of the Year (Individual): Lones Seiber (Senior Kicker) -- Seiber came into the season having made less than 60.0% of his field goal attempts for his career, but in '09, he has made 5-8 field goals (62.5%), with one block, and a miss from 49 yards. So, overall he's been much improved from the inconsistent kicker he has been over the last three years. And with all of the criticism he has received (me included), he deserves some kudos.

Pleasant Surprise of the Year (Team): The running game -- Derrick Locke, Alfonso Smith, Randall Cobb, Moncell Allen, John Conner and the offensive line are of course responsible for the incredible, season-saving success of the Kentucky's running game. It has been powerful, elusive, and overly effective ... let's keep it up. (See running game stats above)

Biggest Negative Play of the Year: The failed two-point conversion attempt versus South Carolina -- I don't want to belabor a point that has been beat to death by everyone from myself, to the mainstream media, but if I could ask Rich Brooks and Joker Phillips one question regarding that decision it would be, "Why?" The staff's decision to allow Will Fidler to quarterback on the play didn't cost UK the victory, but it cost the 'Cats the chance to win. I could keep going, but ... well, let's leave the unpleasantness where it belongs. In the past.

Biggest Positive Play of the Year: Randall Cobb's 61-yard scamper (or did he run about 80-yards?) to set up the winning touchdown versus Auburn -- Cobb, in that one play, displayed why he is considered such a dangerous weapon: He broke a long run, he evaded several would-be-tacklers, and he did it with the game on the line. Pressure? Cobb has pressure for breakfast.

Honorable mention goes to Louisville's Trent Guy for his fumble late in the fourth quarter of the UK vs. U of L game. If Guy doesn't put the ball on the turf on his attempted catch of a UK punt, Big Blue's chances of winning diminish exponentially.

Most Outstanding Performance of the Season: The defense in the Auburn game -- Without UK's smothering defense for the entire game, Cobb's 61-yard run would have been for naught. Kentucky's defense held Auburn to 170 fewer yards than the Tigers average on the year, and gave up only a single touchdown. This against a team that averaged nearly 39 points per game.

Thoroughly frustrated is the most appropriate term to describe Auburn quarterback Chris Todd. Coming into the game the Elizabethtown native was the SEC's second leading passer, averaging nearly 227 yards per game, while completing 57.8% of his passes. UK held Todd to 10-24 passing for 80 yards and only his second interception of the year. Kentucky's rush defense was nearly as impressive -- Auburn running back Ben Tate was averaging 6.1 yards per carry coming into the game, but was held to only 4.3 yards per carry. Tate's running mate, Onterio McCaleb, averaged 6.0 yards per carry, but MJ and his Crew held him to only 22 yards on seven carries (3.1 ypc).

Coming into the Auburn game, I wasn't sure UK could keep up with the Tiger's rapid fire offense, how silly of me. Hats off to the D! The Auburn victory belongs to you.

Feel free to condemn, but as always,

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

Week Five Preview: #3 Alabama at Kentucky

outsidethesidelines — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:15:10 -0000

More photos » by James Crisp - AP

2 months ago: Kentucky coach Rich Brooks looks on during the second half of their NCAA college football game against Florida in Lexington, Ky., Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009. (AP Photo/James Crisp)

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Almost a year to the day after earning an ugly, 17-14 win over Kentucky in Tuscaloosa, the Tide now takes the return trip to Lexington for the re-match. Historically Alabama has dominated this series, putting it mildly, and the Tide is once again a heavy favorite as we go into Lexington. Of course, though, the Kentucky program under Rich Brooks is a far better one than the Tide has historically faced when going up against the Wildcats, and conference wins rarely come easy. Kentucky is a formidable foe in their own right, and they present the Alabama coaching staff plenty of challenges. Let's take a closer look at the match-ups.

Alabama Offense v. Kentucky Defense

Despite being a general juggernaut throughout the first four games of the season -- averaging over 35 points and about 500 yards of total offense per game -- the Alabama offense did encounter its first real problems of the season last week against Arkansas, as the Hogs were able to shut down the Tide's running game. Thankfully we still scored a lot of points because we had three long touchdowns, plus one short drive created by Lorenzo Washington's blocked punt, but the chink in the armor was nevertheless somewhat revealed. Simply put, the Hogs had a big, physical defensive front seven, they committed the resources necessary to stop the run, and we simply could not do much with it.

And in all fairness to Kentucky, the Wildcats do have a fine defense. Oddly enough, after spending years of having a prolific offense mixed with a defense that couldn't stop anyone, Kentucky now sports a fine defense, and it will easily be one of the best defenses we face all season. It's just a good group, top-to-bottom, with good coaching and a couple of legitimate star players to boot.

The defensive front seven, much like last week against Arkansas, does present some major issues simply because they are big and physical. The front four averages around 270 pounds, with a couple of 300 pound players in Corey Peters and Ricky Lumpkin anchoring the interior defensive line. The defensive ends are about as big as you will find for legitimate 4-3 teams, and the linebacker corps is big even by 3-4 standards. As a whole the corps averages around 240 pounds, while standout Micah Johnson comes in at around 260 pounds and Sam Maxwell is nearly as big. Bottom line, just like Arkansas a week ago, this is a very big, physical defensive front seven, and that will probably give us a lot of issues up front.

In particular, don't sleep on Micah Johnson. He is probably the best defensive player in the SEC you've never heard of, and it's only because he isn't playing for a high-profile program. He was a five-star recruit out of high school that could have legitimately gone to any school in the country, and he's practically been a standout player since first setting foot on campus. Truth be told, he's every bit as good as Rolando McClain or Brandon Spikes, and he will play on Sunday one day very soon. He can make a very big impact on a game, and we'll have to do all we can to limit his effectiveness. If he played for a high-profile program like Alabama or Florida, everyone in the country would know his name.

The biggest concern, though, that this defense poses as a whole is their ability to play the pass. Arkansas was big and physical in the front seven, but they couldn't rush the passer effectively, nor did their defensive backs cover well in space. Perhaps not too surprisingly, then, the Hogs shut down the running game with ease, but were torched in the passing game by Greg McElroy and company. Kentucky, on the other hand, faces no such limitation. Kentucky is big and physical in the front seven, but they can also effectively rush the passer, and they also have a fine defensive backfield to boot. Simply put, that's a big problem for 'Bama.

The pass rush itself is probably one of the best in the conference. The off-season loss of Jeremy Jarmon -- Jarmon tested positive for a banned supplement, lost a year of eligibility, and entered the NFL Supplemental Draft -- was a big one for the 'Cats, but the pass rush hasn't exactly struggled in his absence. Junior college transfer DeQuin Evans has played well in his place, and Collins Ukwu has been a force at times as well. Moreover, freshman Taylor Windham brings a lot of speed off the edge and he has already proven that he can rush the passer well (see the knockout blow on Tim Tebow last weekend). The Kentucky defense has racked up seven sacks this year on 79 passing attempts, so they have already showcased an ability to get after the quarterback.

That's bad enough for the Alabama offense, but making matters worse is the strength of the Kentucky defensive backfield. Cornerback Trevard Lindley is easily the cornerback in the SEC, and he will be a first round draft pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. He's an impact player who opposing teams generally loathe throwing against, but unfortunately the rest of the Kentucky defensive backfield is a solid group as well. Paul Warford normally starts opposite Lindley at cornerback, but he is missing the Alabama game with an injury, and Randall Burden will play in his place. The good news for Kentucky is that Burden seems like a solid option, and if nothing else he can really dance. Likewise, Winston Guy and Calvin Harrison really aren't game-changers at safety, but both are decent players at this stage who can get the job done.

All in all, the Kentucky defense is a fine one, and they present a lot of problems for the Alabama offense. They are big and physical enough to stop the run, and once they stop the run, you have to throw the football successfully, and to that end they can rush the passer and cover in the defensive backfield. Again, it's a fine unit, and if they can stay healthy it's perhaps the best defense the Tide will face all year. Objectively speaking, points ought to be hard to come by.

Alabama Defense v. Kentucky Offense

Remember earlier when I talked about how Kentucky used to be a team with a prolific offense and a laughable defense? Well, now the roles have entirely reversed, and its the offense that suddenly cannot get out of its own way. The Wildcats finished 87th in the country last year in scoring offense, and if the early returns are any indicator this offense is likely to much more closely resemble the 2008 offense than it does either the 2006 or 2007 units.

The biggest problem that this offense faces is simply that they don't have a lot of high-end players, particularly at the skill positions. At quarterback, Mike Hartline is a big, tall quarterback with decent mobility, but that is generally where his positive attributes end. He can put up a good completion percentage when throwing a lot of dink and dunk routes, but he doesn't have the arm you would probably imagine given his frame, nor is he overly accurate. On the whole, most of the time he's just an average-at-best passer.

Likewise, there are really no true game-changers at the skill positions. Randall Cobb, the former quarterback, is really the only true playmaker on the outside, and in general Kentucky does absolutely everything in their power to get the ball in his hands (including putting Cobb in the Wildcat). Aside from Cobb, though, there is just really nothing of note on the outside. Chris Matthews and Matt Roark are both very big targets (at around 6'5), but neither are particularly athletic and they have struggled to get separation. Kyrus Lanxter has been slowed by injuries, and while T.C. Drake is a decent tight end, he's probably not as good as Jacob Tamme was back when the Wildcats could really light up the scoreboard. Truth be told, outside of Cobb, their best receiver is likely the speedy Derrick Locke, a tailback, coming out of the backfield.

And speaking of tailbacks, Kentucky has a decent group there that generally features a mix of size and speed. Derrick Locke is the speedster of the group, and he is one of the quickest backs in the SEC. Physically he is almost a clone of Arkansas' Michael Smith, and he brings to the table the same strengths and weaknesses. The Wildcats, however, do have some physical backs that they use to run inside, so they can attack you in more ways than one. Both Alfonso Smith and Moncell Allen are physical tailbacks well over 200 pounds that can pound the interior running game. Likewise, fullback John Conner -- not related to this guy -- is a legitimate threat at fullback as a runner, receiver, and blocker.

The biggest strength of this offense is clearly at the point of attack with the offensive line. This is the most experienced offensive line in the SEC, and they start four seniors. Left tackle Zipp Duncan and right tackle Justin Jeffries are probably the best two players of the group, but the interior linemen aren't exactly shabby in their own right. It's not a unit featuring any true standout players, per se, but it's a capable group. They aren't mashers in the running game, mind you, but they do generally do a good job of protecting the quarterback. Kentucky quarterbacks have only been sacked three times this year on roughly 90 passing attempts, so these guys can clearly get the job done in pass protection.

All in all, though, again, this Kentucky offense just isn't very good. There simply aren't enough playmakers at the skill positions, and the quarterback isn't a standout player either. The offensive line is a solid group, as are the tailbacks, but they don't do enough in their own right to be able to overcome all of the shortcomings everywhere else that would allow Kentucky to truly light up the scoreboard.

As a whole, you really have to feel confident about how the Alabama defense looks to match up here. Kentucky is a physical team that likes to run the football, but even with the absence of Dont'a Hightower, it's hard to see this team having very much success against the Alabama defense on the ground. Likewise, while the Tide may struggle a bit to get to the passer, it's hard to see Kentucky having a lot of success in the passing game considering they lack quality depth at wide receiver or a consistently effective passing quarterback.

Putting It All Together

In the grand scheme of things, you really have to like the Tide's chances of winning this game. I think it's clear that we are the better team here, and there is a legitimate reason that we are favored going into this game.

On the other hand, though, Kentucky is no pushover. They may struggle offensively, but this is a good football team, and I personally think that Rich Brooks is easily one of the most underrated coaches of his generation. These guys have made three straight bowl games, and they will likely make a fourth straight in 2009. Likewise, after getting embarrassed by Florida, expect this Kentucky team to show up Saturday morning in Lexington like they just ate nails for breakfast. They'll be ready to play a long, physical contest, rest assured of that.

The good news is that the Kentucky offense ought to have very little success in terms of point production, unless we really give them some cheap points via turnovers and special teams breakdowns (speaking of which, Locke had a 100-yard kick return for a touchdown against Louisville). That said, unless we can really improve in terms of run blocking, the Kentucky defense may very well shut our offense down as well, and we could be in for another long, ugly, low-scoring game much like we had a year ago. Those who think that the Tide is simply going to walk into Lexington and come away with an easy win are probably in for a rude awakening come Saturday. Unless we suddenly play a lot better up front, or Kentucky decides to beat itself for the second week in a row, this is a game that is likely to be close going into the latter stages of the contest.

Hope for the best.

UK Football: Beating Back the Overreaction, and Kentucky's Areas of Need

Ken Howlett — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:41:11 -0000

More photos » by James Crisp - AP

UK football coach Rich Brooks asks for patience from the fans, and improvement from his players.

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Kentucky's unceremonious 41-7 de-cleating at the hands of the Florida Gators on Saturday seems to have unleashed a chorus of negativity, and talk of the need for change within the UK football program. I suppose I'm not surprised at the outcry, but I should be. You see, even in seasons in which they win more than they lose, UK has consistently found a way to suffer indignant defeat -- Fran Curci's 1976 9-3 season was briefly interrupted by a 31-7 loss to the Georgia Bulldogs in Lexington; Jerry Claiborne's 1983 team, which went 6-5-1, lived through two beatings: One at home to Auburn, 49-21 (I was at that game), and another on the road at Georgia, 47-21; again in 1984, a UK team that recorded a fine 9-3 mark, lost two games by wide margins: To LSU in Lexington, by a score of 36-10, and at home the very next week to Georgia, 37-7; Billy Curry's 1993 Wildcats finished the season 6-6, but lost 48-0 to Tennessee; Hal Mumme's 1998 Tim Couch-led 'Cats went 7-5, yet lost 59-21 to Peyton Manning and the Tennessee Vols; in 1999 UK went 6-6 and lost to both Florida, 38-10, and Tennessee (who won the national title), 56-21, by wide margins; Guy Morriss' underrated 2002 team that went 7-5 lost 53-24 to Georgia, in Lexington (I was at that game as well). And finally, in the last four years, (a high-water mark in UK football history), the 'Cats have lost games in embarrassing fashion each season-- 2006, 49-0 at LSU -- 2007, 31-14 to the underdog Mississippi State Bulldogs -- 2008, 63-5 to Florida, and of course Saturdays 41-7 Gator drubbing.

What does this tell us, or at least, what should this tell us? Well, the first thing the above scores indicate to me is ...

... Kentucky is paying the price for competing in the SEC; generally the strongest football conference in the land.

One aspect of UK's failing to gain considerable ground in their race to become nationally relevant in football is the fact that they compete against the very best teams in the country, on a yearly basis. Couple that with the fact that building a solid football team is a strenuously tall task, and you're left with a program, which for the last 50 years or so, has failed to maintain consistency. Which is what makes what Rich Brooks has achieved in putting together three straight bowl wins a commendable accomplishment.

But, in developing a program the Commonwealth can be proud of, there are teams such as Florida, Georgia, LSU, and Tennessee that display, in living color, what it is UK strives to achieve: A football team complete with the necessary components for playing consistently winning football -- Great skill position players, and incredible team speed, to go along with linemen who know what it feels like to push around some of the nations elite players.

To hold UK to the same standard (at this point, anyway) as the above teams, as it pertains to the number of All-SEC caliber players on Kentucky's roster, is simply unrealistic and patently unfair to the Wildcat team and coaches. To be sure, UK is in the process of building what we all hope becomes a consistently solid football program, but inherent in that growth is the occasional loss which makes one turn away from the television with disgust. And that's what we witnessed Saturday ... no more, no less.

So the recent burst of negative energy coming out of the UK fan base seems a bit misguided, and naive. Make no mistake, though, the numerous unnerving UK penalties, especially at the beginning of Saturdays tilt, contributed to the Gators easily covering the spread. But, UK's offensive and defensive line were clearly inferior to their Florida counterparts. And as any knowledgeable football fan knows, the game is won or lost in the trenches. But of course, the Gators are, if not the best team in the country, one of the two or three most dominant groups in the nation, which should also be reason enough to give UK football fans pause. For comparing this group of Wildcats to one of the preeminent teams in the country is fallacy at its finest.

Saturday's game did, quite clearly, illustrate the talent gap still in existence between UK and the top tier SEC clubs; the game quite clearly illustrated that UK still has ample room to grow as a program; and finally, with UK once again losing handily to a superior SEC opponent, the game quite clearly illustrated that the 'Cats still have another hurdle to overcome in their quest to become a formidable football program.

What fans must remember is; when a program is being built, one has to take the good with the bad. Along with the three straight bowl wins, the three straight victories over Louisville, and the wins over No. 1 LSU and Georgia, goes the lopsided losses to Florida the last two years, and UK's inability to beat Steve Spurrier or Tennessee. Not unlike grieving, building something worth following is a process. And in UK's case, a process not yet complete.

Areas of Need

With games coming up against Alabama, South Carolina and an improved Auburn team, Kentucky is staring this season's crossroad squarely in the eyes. Kentucky needs to win at least two of those games, and in order for that need to be filled, the 'Cats must show improvement in the following areas:

Rush Defense -- U of L's Victor Anderson ran 19 times for 110 yards, a 5.8 yards per carry average. Florida's stable of backs rushed for an astounding 362 yards on 52 rushing attempts (7.0 ypc).

Penalties -- In UK's last two games they have committed 17 penalties for 164 yards. Many of those penalties were drive-killers for the Kentucky offense, or drive-sustainers for the opponent.

Opponents Quarterback Play -- U of L's Justin Burke, and Florida's Tim Tebow, along with Tebow's backup, John Brantley, combined to throw for 378 yards on 44 passes. That's an 8.6 yards gained per pass attempt, and an even more disturbing 15.8 yards per pass completion.

UK's Yards Per Completion -- Kentucky's Mike Hartline has completed 33 passes over the last two games, for a total of 263 yards. That equates to 7.9 yards per completion. Hartline has had a couple of 20 + yard completions wiped out by penalties, but in order for UK's passing game to be taken seriously, the completion average needs to be in double-digits. On a related note; Florida executed six pass breakups and two interceptions on only 28 UK passes. Eight pass interruptions are a function of throwing into heavy coverage, something Hartline has to get under control.

Florida's Average Gain Per Play -- The Gators ran 68 plays for a total of 495 yards, an average of 7.3 yards per play. That's a video game average, not real life, or at least it shouldn't be. This total tells the tale of UK's defensive line's ineffectiveness versus the Gators.

Giving Up Big Plays on Third & Long -- Third & Long = 3rd Down and at least five yards to go: Versus U of L, Kentucky allowed the following 3rd & Long[s] to be converted into first downs -- 3rd & 6 - 15 yard completion; 3rd & 8 -- 10 yard completion; 3rd & 9 - Pass interference against UK; 3rd & 14 -- 16 yard completion; 3rd & 7 -- 21 yard completion. Overall, Louisville was 9-17 in third down conversions.

Against Florida, UK allowed the following 3rd & Long[s] to be converted into first downs -- 3rd & 5 - 30-yard rush; 3rd & 7 - 11-yard rush. Florida was a much more acceptable 5-13 in third down conversions.

Average Opponents Starting Field Position -- Florida and Louisville had the tremendous advantage of beginning their drives (on average) from their own 38 yard line (UF) and 41 yard line (U of L), with seven of Florida's drives beginning on the UK 36, UK 23, UF 42, UK 46, UK 49, UK 8 and Florida 40. It matters not who UK is playing; allowing the opponent such advantageous field position will surely lead to a loss, much more than a win.

UK's Rushing Offense -- Against Florida, UK's four primary ball-carriers performed less than admirably -- Derrick Locke - 13 carries for 36 yards; Alfonso Smith - Seven carries for 12 yards; Moncell Allen - Three carries for 28 yards (not bad "Turtle"); and John Conner - 2 carries for 7 yards.

That's 25 carries for only 83 yards (3.3 ypc). Perhaps no stat is as telling -- Kentucky absolutely must improve this statistic if they harbor hopes of competing with anyone on their SEC slate.

UK's Offensive (pun intended) First Down Performance -- Of 27 first down plays against Florida, UK gained a TOTAL of 54 yards. The carnage looked like this: Five-yard rush (offset by an illegal motion penalty); false start; nine yard sack; Incompletion; three-yard rush; incompletion; three-yard rush; five-yard rush; two-yard rush; Zero gain rush (illegal formation = - five-yards); three-yard rush; five-yard rush; nine-yard completion; 21-yard completion (offset by a pass interference penalty= - 12 yards); four-yard rush (on 1st & 22); incompletion; zero gain rush; five-yard rush; minus eight-yard rush; 20-yard rush; two-yard rush; interception; 15-yard completion; six-yard rush; incompletion; six-yard rush; incompletion.

Putting UK's offense in 2nd (& 3rd) and Long, is not a recipe for winning over fans, and influencing poll voters. Now, keeping in mind that the Gators are one of the elite defensive teams in the nation; UK still must improve this statistic to keep from being consistently predictable within the parameters of the offense.

A Sea of Blue Announcement

If you haven't already read Tru's announcement about the Wildcat Tip-Off preseason UK basketball magazine, here's a link to the post.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

Florida at Kentucky -- Pre-game Statistical Breakdown

Truzenzuzex — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 17:45:27 -0000

More photos » by John Raoux - AP

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Tonight's game against the Florida Gators represents the second time in three years that Kentucky has faced the #1 team in the nation in Commonwealth Stadium. That is a testament to just how tough the SEC has been lately, and no matter what the outcome of tonight's game, it is a testament to the quality of football we have gotten used to in the SEC.

Some fun (and not so fun) facts about tonight's game, before we get into the hard-core stats:

Series history: Florida leads 42-17.
Cumulative score in the last 5 meetings: Florida: 203 UK: 80
UK leads the nation in QB sacks allowed, and has not allowed one this year.
Randall Cobb leads the SEC and is tied for 23rd in the nation in receptions per game.
Trevard Lindley is second in the nation in passes defended.
This is the 60th meeting between UK and Florida.
Joker Phillips and Urban Meyer were both offensive coordinators at Notre Dame.
Lones Seiber needs one point to tie Joey Worley for the UK scoring record.
Trevard Lindley needs one INT to tie for second on UK's all-time list.
Derrick Locke needs 43 yards to reach a career 1000 yard milestone.
Kentucky is 3-8 all time against #1 ranked teams.
UK is 38-172-5 against ranked opponents.
Rich Brooks is currently 5th all-time in wins at UK.
Derrick Locke ranks 9th nationally in all-purpose yards.

More after the jump.

The statistical comparison:

Team Statistics	Kentucky	Opponents	Florida	Opponents
Scoring: Points/Game	36.5	13.5	47.0	7.3
Scoring: Games - Points	2 - 73	2 - 27	3 - 141	3 - 22
First Downs: Total	47	29	78	39
First Downs: Rushing - Passing - By Penalty	24 - 20 - 3	12 - 14 - 3	43 - 33 - 2	17 - 19 - 3
Rushing: Yards / Attempt	5.04	3.15	7.06	3.03
Rushing: Attempts - Yards - TD	82 - 413 - 5	62 - 195 - 1	123 - 868 - 10	94 - 285 - 1
Passing: Rating	141.13	94.87	175.27	77.73
Passing: Yards	421	371	742	387
Passing: Attempts - Completions - Interceptions - TD	59 - 40 - 1 - 3	63 - 28 - 3 - 2	82 - 57 - 1 - 8	92 - 47 - 4 - 0
Total Offense: Yards / Play	5.9	4.5	7.9	3.6
Total Offense: Plays - Yards	141 - 834	125 - 566	205 - 1610	186 - 672
Punt Returns: Yards / Return	7.60	9.33	3.40	0.00
Punt Returns: Returns - Yards - TD	5 - 38 - 0	3 - 28 - 0	10 - 34 - 0	1 - 0 - 0
Kickoff Returns: Yards / Return	42.33	22.25	38.13	16.82
Kickoff Returns: Returns - Yards - TD	6 - 254 - 1	12 - 267 - 0	8 - 305 - 1	22 - 370 - 0
Punting: Yards / Punt	40.14	38.00	41.50	40.43
Punting: Punts - Yards	7 - 281	12 - 456	6 - 249	21 - 849
Interceptions: Returns - Yards - TD	3 - 84 - 1	1 - 0 - 0	4 - 0 - 0	1 - 0 - 0
Fumbles: Number - Lost	4 - 2	2 - 1	7 - 4	5 - 2
Penalties: Number - Yards	11 - 115	11 - 75	22 - 155	15 - 131
Time of Possession / Game	31:56.50	28:03.50	28:56.33	31:03.67
3rd Down Conversions: Conversion %	58.62%	34.38%	66.67%	31.25%
3rd Down Conversions: Attempts - Conversions	29 - 17	32 - 11	36 - 24	48 - 15
4th Down Conversions: Conversion %	50%	50%	50%	20%
4th Down Conversions: Attempts - Conversions	2 - 1	2 - 1	2 - 1	5 - 1
Red Zone: Success %	77.78%	57.14%	87.5%	66.67%
Red Zone: Attempts - Scores	9 - 7	7 - 4	16 - 14	6 - 4
Field Goals: Success %	50%	50%	75%	100%
Field Goals: Attempts - Made	2 - 1	4 - 2	4 - 3	5 - 5
PAT Kicking: Success %	100%	100%	94.7%	100%
PAT Kicking: Attempts - Made	10 - 10	3 - 3	19 - 18	1 - 1
2-Point Conversions: Success %	-	-	-	-
2-Point Conversions: Attempts - Made	0 - 0	0 - 0	0 - 0	0 - 0

I've highlighted the items that I think are significant, the light blue for UK and the light orange for the Gators.

Analysis

For UK to beat Florida would be a major upset, no matter what the condition of the team vis-a-vis the flu. Florida is the fastest team in the nation, having a number of athletes on their team with world-class speed -- Jeffrey Demps immediately comes to mind. They also have a presumptive Heisman trophy candidate in Tim Tebow, which would be his second. Florida also has one of the best linebackers in the nation in Brandon Spikes, and a very solid defense all around.

Kentucky, on the other hand, has a few of these things -- one of the best linebackers in the SEC in Micah Johnson, arguably the best cover corner in the league and one of the best in America, and the most experience offensive line in the SEC.

Florida offense vs. Kentucky defense.

The Florida offense is one of the most high-powered in the nation. Florida attempts to isolate athletes in space by using a variation of the Spread Option offense, and because their athletes are so explosive, they are deadly when they achieve that objective. Florida's offense did not perform particularly well against Tennessee's defense, but they performed well enough to win the game, and Tennessee's defense is very stout.

To succeed today, Florida's offense must:

Get the ball to Demps early and often, particularly on the pass;
Keep Tebow protected in the pocket so he can work his magic, either with his feet or with his arm;
Avoid throwing the ball at Trevard Lindley;
Let Chris Rainey run the ball and force UK to stop him;
Riley Cooper and Aaron Hernandez are averaging 16 and 12 yards/reception respectively. Tennessee held them down a bit, but can Kentucky?

This will be a big test for the UK defense. Against the only BCS team it has faced so far, Kentucky's defense was anything but impressive. Of course, the three turnovers in a row that kept the defense on the field for the entire third quarter of the Louisville game does not really give us a fair read, but it is safe to say that the biggest concern. Kentucky's biggest concern right now is pressure from the defensive line -- they were able to get very little on Louisville's mobile quarterback, and that is not an encouraging fact when facing the much more accomplished and highly mobile Tim Tebow.

To succeed today, Kentucky's defense must:

Force Tebow to throw the ball on the run;
Contain Tebow and Demps on the outside;
Minimize the yards after reception. Florida killed UK last year with yards after the catch;
Make solid tackles, particularly on Demps and Tebow.
Take chances. Kentucky cannot beat Florida by playing conservative, their athletes are too good.

Kentucky offense vs. Florida defense

Kentucky's offense is clearly better than it was last year with a more mature Mike Hartline and Randall Cobb, the addition of Chris Matthews at wide receiver and the return of the dangerous Derrick Locke. Kentucky has enough offensive weapons to do some damage against Florida, and if it can manage to keep the defense on the field with long drives that result in scores, UK could threaten Florida if they are not having a great offensive game.

To succeed today, Kentucky's offense must:

Get the ball to Randall Cobb early and often;
Continue to give Hartline time;
Throw the ball downfield some;
Establish a running game to keep Florida from teeing off on Hartline;
Avoid third and long.

Florida's defense is a very strong unit, but interestingly enough is currently ranked only 3 spots above Kentucky in the run. Florida has not been particularly strong against the running game this year, and with a healthy Derrick Locke and Alfonso Smith, UK could do some damage by reeling off a few good gains. Brandon Spikes, Florida's All-American candidate linebacker, will probably be able to prevent big gains over the ground.

To succeed today, Florida's defense must:

Deny Randall Cobb the ball wherever possible, even double-team him at WR;
Force UK to throw the ball underneath, where Florida's speed can be used most effectively;
Keep UK from running the ball effectively;
Find a way to get some pressure on Hartline.

Summary

Overall, Florida is deeper and more talented than Kentucky at most positions, but not ridiculously so at most of them. UK has seriously upgraded its talent overall, and even though Florida will be prohibitive favorites to win, it won't take much in the way of missteps of poor play on the part of the Gators to turn this into a football game. Urban Meyer knows this well, so he will not be cocky or careless against the Wildcats, and will likely force Kentucky to take most of the chances.

Obviously, if UK collapses on special teams like they did last year, or allow too many early big plays, they will fold like a house of cards versus the Gators' superior speed and talent. But if UK can hold in tight for the first quarter or so, the game could get interesting real fast. The Gators have a number of players who are feeling ill, and forcing sick guys to play in a competitive football game would give UK a shot at winning. The Gators will want to jump on the 'Cats early, and try to get at least a 21-point cushion before halftime. That way, they can play safe and smart, and avoid exhausting their ailing players.

Predicted score: Florida 38, UK 24

Rivalry Week Monday Links

Mike Rutherford — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:45:15 -0000

A few sites to keep an eye on this week:

A Sea of Blue

Kentucky Sports Radio

John Clay's Blog

Chip Cosby's Blog

LHL Sports

Monday's stories:

--Like Louisville, Kentucky's deepest position might be running back.

Senior Alfonso Smith is Dixon's heir apparent and sits atop the depth chart at tailback. But it looks as if Brooks will once again employ the tailback-by-committee approach he's used for most of his time at UK.

Kentucky used five different tailbacks in its 42-0 win over Miami last week, and all five ran the ball effectively. Smith had 36 yards on seven carries; junior Derrick Locke, No. 2 on the depth chart, led all rushers with 61 yards on eight carries; third-stringer Moncell Allenadded 57 yards on eight carries; redshirt freshman CoShik Williams had a team-high 10 carries for 39 yards, and true freshman Donald Russell picked up 30 yards on seven fourth-quarter carries.

--Both teams are coming off bye weeks, something Steve Kragthorpe didn't necessarily want.

Kragthorpe said UofL "tried like heck" to find a foe for Week2 and had two lined up, only to see both back out. So the Cards were left with an open week after beating Indiana State 30-10 in the opener. UK also had a week off after blanking Miami of Ohio 42-0.

"It's very different," Kragthorpe said last week. "It's something I have never done before, play one game and then have (an open date). It's different, but that's just the way it worked out. It's also different for the guys in Lexington."

UK and UofL were among just eight FBS schools with open dates after their openers.

"It's kind of like the high school or pro teams that have preseason games, but our game did count on the schedule," UofL running back Victor Anderson said. "It's different than what we're used to. The guys got a feel for the game atmosphere, and then we had a week off before the big game.

"It gives us time to prepare, because this is like the state championship."

--Current line: Cats by 12.

--Defensive tackles Joe Townsend and Tyler Jessen were cleared for contact last Thursday, while tight end Nate Nord also returned to action.

--Eric Crawford breaks down some depressing comparative scores.

Red 122:That's how many points worse than Cincinnati U of L is. It's simple math. The Cards beat Indiana State by 20. Quincy beat the Sycamores by 6. U of L is 14 points better than Quincy, which lost by 69 to Southeast Missouri, which lost 70-3 to Cincinnati on Saturday. I know, comparative scores are meaningless. Here's something that isn't: UC is the new Louisville, piling up ridiculous offensive numbers while dispatching opponents at the first sign of weakness.

--And finally, John Clay discusses the undeniable lack of buzz surrounding this year's Battle for the Governor's Cup.

SB Nation - Alfonso Smith

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- Cancun Challenge Championship Edition

Kentucky Football: Giving Thanks to Those Deserving Much More

Kentucky 37 EKU 12: After-Action Report

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- The Gates of Delirium

Top Stories

UK Basketball News

UK Football News

Other UK Sports News

NCAA Sports News

Other News of Interest

The Daily Schadenfreude

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- ULM Edition

UK Football: Mid-Season Accolades

Week Five Preview: #3 Alabama at Kentucky

UK Football: Beating Back the Overreaction, and Kentucky's Areas of Need

Florida at Kentucky -- Pre-game Statistical Breakdown

Analysis

Florida offense vs. Kentucky defense.

Kentucky offense vs. Florida defense

Summary

Rivalry Week Monday Links