SB Nation User Blog: Ken Howlett

UK Basketball: A Statistical Look at the SEC

Ken Howlett — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 21:38:39 -0000

Kentucky coach John Calipari asks, where do my 'Cats stand statistically within the SEC?

Ten games into the season, and the Kentucky Wildcats are sporting a pristine 10-0 record, with two wins against top-15 competition. OK, so you already knew that, but do you know how UK stands within the conference in the many statistical categories? If not, prepare yourself for an onslaught of SEC stats, standings, as well as enough conference information to make one forget about Bob Knight and his "unamusing" musings.

After the jump comes ... the rest of the story.

Conference Standings

East West

1. Kentucky - 10-0 1. Mississippi - 9-1

t2. Tennessee - 8-1 2. Mississippi State - 8-2

t2. Florida - 8-1 3. LSU - 7-2

4. South Carolina - 7-2 4. Alabama - 7-3

5. Vanderbilt - 6-3 t5. Arkansas - 5-5

6. Georgia - 4-4 t5. Auburn - 5-5

Scoring Offense -- 1. Tennessee (84.1) 2. Mississippi (83.1) 3. Kentucky (80.3) 4. Arkansas (80.2) 5. South Carolina (78.1) 6. Mississippi State (76.2) 7. Florida (75.4) 8. Vanderbilt (74.4) 9. Auburn (72.2) 10. Alabama (70.7) 11. LSU (66.1) 12. Georgia (63.5).

Arkansas is averaging over 80 points per game, but is still only 5-5?

Scoring Defense -- 1. Mississippi State (59.5) 2. Tennessee (60.2) 3. Florida (60.9) 4. LSU (62.1) 5. Alabama (63.2) 6. Georgia (63.6) 7. Kentucky (65.5) 8. Auburn (67.7) 9. South Carolina (68.2) t10. Mississippi (68.3) t10. Vanderbilt (68.3) 12. Arkansas (72.6).

Tennessee and Florida, both weak defensively last season, have so far shown a tremendous defensive turnaround. John Pelphrey, on the other hand, needs to instill some of the defensive tenacity at Arkansas he employed while playing for the 'Cats.

Scoring Margin -- 1. Tennessee (+23.9) 2. Mississippi State (+16.7) t3. Mississippi (+14.8) t3. Kentucky (+14.8) 5. Florida (+14.6) 6. South Carolina (+9.9) 7. Arkansas (+7.6) 8. Alabama (+7.5) 9. Vanderbilt (+6.1) 10. Auburn (+4.5) 11. LSU (+4.0) 12. Georgia (-.1).

It looks as if Bruce Pearl has finally reigned in his talented UT squad ... as of now, that is.

Field Goal % -- 1. Tennessee (50.4) 2. Kentucky (49.7) 3. Arkansas (49.0) 4. Mississippi State (47.5) t5. Florida (46.3) t5. Mississippi (46.3) 7. Vanderbilt (46.1) 8. Alabama (45.4) 9. South Carolina (43.9) 10. LSU (43.4) 11. Georgia (42.9) 12. Auburn (42.7).

South Carolina must shoot the ball better if they wish to atone for last year's NCAA Tournament slight. Arkansas, shooting 49% and standing at 5-5? I sense a trend developing.

Field Goal % Defense -- 1. Mississippi State (36.8) 2. Tennessee (37.8) 3. Kentucky (38.6) 4. Arkansas (40.1) 5. Florida (40.3) 6. LSU (41.5) 7. Mississippi (41.6) 8. Auburn (41.8) 9. Georgia (42.0) 10. Vanderbilt (42.1) 11. Alabama (42.2) 12. South Carolina (42.3).

Tennessee once again surprises. What once was holding UT back from fulfilling their promise, may now become the strength of their team ... if they can keep up D-heat.

Three-Point % -- 1. Mississippi State (41.9) 2. Tennessee (40.6) 3. Arkansas (39.3) 4. Kentucky (38.0) 5. Mississippi (36.2) 6. Alabama (34.8) 7. Florida (33.0) 8. Georgia (32.3) 9. South Carolina (32.1) 10. Vanderbilt (31.9) 11. LSU (30.5) 12. Auburn (30.4).

Shooters, shooters, needed in middle Tennessee, Louisiana, and Alabama.

Three-Point % Defense -- 1. Florida (21.5) 2. Tennessee (27.5) 3. Mississippi (31.3) 4. Auburn (34.0) 5. Alabama (34.1) 6. South Carolina (34.8) 7. Mississippi State (35.1) 8. Vanderbilt (35.2) 9. LSU (35.4) 10. Kentucky (36.1) 11. Georgia (36.4) 12. Arkansas (38.4).

Allowing 38.4% shooting from beyond the three-point line isn't defense, it's indifferent defense, and also the reason Arkansas may have a new head coach next year. UT and Florida continue to impress.

Free Throw % -- 1. Mississippi State (70.7) 2. Georgia (70.6) 3. Florida (70.1) 4. Tennessee (69.6) 5. Alabama (69.2) 6. Vanderbilt (67.4) 7. LSU (67.4) 8. South Carolina (67.0) 9. Mississippi (66.9) 10. Kentucky (66.0) 11. Arkansas (64.6) 12. Auburn (62.1).

The relative weak conference free throw shooting may render UK's poor average inconsequential.

Rebound Average -- 1. Kentucky (42.1) 2. Mississippi State (40.6) 3. Mississippi (39.6) 4. LSU (39.4) 5. South Carolina (38.0) 6. Florida (37.8) 7. Tennessee (37.1) 8. Vanderbilt (36.7) 9. Auburn (36.6) 10. Georgia (34.5) 11. Alabama (34.3) 12. Arkansas (34.1).

Kentucky should win a number of SEC games based strictly on their ability to hit the boards with a vengeance.

Rebounding Defense -- 1. LSU (30.9) 2. Kentucky (31.5) 3. Georgia (32.2) t4. Tennessee (32.6) t4. Mississippi State (32.6) 6. Alabama (34.1) t7. Florida (36.0) t7. Arkansas (36.0) 9. Auburn (36.2) 10. Vanderbilt (37.8) 11. Mississippi (39.1) South Carolina (39.6).

Rebounding Margin -- 1. Kentucky (+10.6) 2. LSU (+8.6) 3. Mississippi State (+8.0) 4. Tennessee (+4.6) 5. Georgia (+2.2) 6. Florida (+1.8) 7. Mississippi (+.5) 8. Auburn (+.4) 9. Alabama (+.2) 10. Vanderbilt (-1.1) 11. South Carolina (-1.6) 12. Arkansas (-1.9).

Offensive Rebounds -- 1. Kentucky (15.4) 2. South Carolina (14.7) 3. LSU (14.6) 4. Mississippi (13.8) 5. Auburn (13.6) 6. Florida (13.3) 7. Alabama (12.6) 8. Vanderbilt (11.8) 9. Tennessee (11.7) 10. Georgia (11.6) 11. Mississippi State (10.4) 12. Arkansas (10.0).

Offensive rebounds equals a gained possession, something UK has been lacking in to a great degree the last four years.

Offensive Rebound % -- 1. Kentucky (44.8) 2. LSU (40.8) 3. Florida (37.5) 4. Alabama (37.0) 5. South Carolina (36.6) 6. Mississippi (35.8) 7. Auburn (35.4) 8. Georgia (34.7) 9. Tennessee (34.5) 10. Vanderbilt (33.2) 11. Mississippi State (32.2) 12. Arkansas (29.9).

Surprisingly low number for Mississippi State. UK at nearly 45.0% is remarkable.

Defensive Rebounds -- 1. Mississippi State (30.2) 2. Kentucky (26.7) 3. Mississippi (25.8) 4. Tennessee (25.4) t5. Vanderbilt (24.9) t5. LSU (24.9) 7. Florida (24.4) 8. Arkansas (24.1) 9. South Carolina (23.3) 10. Auburn (23.0) 11. Georgia (22.9) 12. Alabama (21.7)

Defensive Rebound % -- 1. Mississippi State (73.8) 2. LSU (71.8) 3. Tennessee (70.9) 4. Georgia (68.8) 5. Kentucky (68.1) 6. Auburn (66.9) 7. Arkansas (65.8) 8. Mississippi (64.2) 9. Florida (64.0) 10. Vanderbilt (63.8) 11. Alabama (63.3) 12. South Carolina (62.3).

How can MSU be so strong on the defensive boards, and so bad on the offensive glass?

Blocked Shots -- 1. Mississippi State (8.6) 2. Kentucky (8.1) 3. South Carolina (7.8) 4. Mississippi (6.0) 5. Georgia (5.6) 6. Vanderbilt (5.0) 7. Alabama (4.6) 8. Arkansas (4.1) t9. Tennessee (3.2) t9. LSU (3.2) t11. Florida (3.0) t11. Auburn (3.0).

Raise your hand if you think John Calipari will have his players drive directly into the path of MSU's Jarvis Varnado, continuing an unpleasant Billy Gillespie tradition, which resulted in nearly 30 blocked shots in two games.

Assists -- 1. Tennessee (18.2) 2. Arkansas (16.3) 3. Kentucky (15.6) 4. Florida (15.4) 5. Mississippi (14.3) 6. Alabama (14.1) 7. Mississippi State (13.6) 8. Auburn (13.1) 9. LSU (12.4) 10. Georgia (12.3) 11. Vanderbilt (11.2) 12. South Carolina (10.7).

I expect UK's assist numbers to rise, as the team continues to gel. Does UT's 18 dimes per game signal an end to the alleged chemistry issues which plagued the team last season?

Steals -- 1. Auburn (9.5) 2. South Carolina (9.1) 3. Tennessee (8.9) 4. Alabama (8.4) 5. Mississippi (8.3) 6. Florida (7.8) 7. Georgia (7.7) 8. Kentucky (7.6) 9. Vanderbilt (6.7) 10. Arkansas (6.5) 11. LSU (5.8) 12. Mississippi State (5.3).

Strong numbers at the top the conference.

Turnover Margin -- 1. Tennessee (+6.9) 2. South Carolina (+5.1) 3. Mississippi (+4.7) 4. Alabama (+3.6) 5. Florida (+2.3) 6. Auburn (+2.0) 7. Arkansas (+1.6) 8. Vanderbilt (-.33) 9. LSU (-.56) 10. Georgia (-1.4) 11. Kentucky (-1.9) 12. Mississippi State (-2.6).

If UK hopes to race to Indianapolis as a Final Four participant, this number has to improve.

Assist/Turnover Ratio -- 1. Tennessee (1.4) 2. Arkansas (1.2) 3. Alabama (1.2) 4. Mississippi (1.1) t5. Florida (1.0) t5. Mississippi State (1.0) 7. LSU (.96) 8. Kentucky (.93) 9. Auburn (.86) 10. Georgia (.84) 11. Vanderbilt (.75) 12. South Carolina (.74).

Top Individual SEC Performers

Scoring -- 1. Rotnei Clarke (ARK) - 21.1 2. Chris Warren (UM) - 19.2 3. John Wall (UK) - 18.1 4. Tasmin Mitchell (LSU) - 18.0 5. Devan Downey (SC) - 17.7 6. Patrick Patterson (UK) - 16.8.

Now we see why Clarke was a hard target recruit for Billy Gillespie.

Rebounding -- 1. Storm Warren (LSU) - 11.4 2. Jarvis Varnado (MSU) - 10.1 3. Patrick Patterson (UK) - 9.6 4. Tasmin Mitchell (LSU) - 8.4 5. DeMarcus Cousins (UK) - 8.3.

Field Goal % -- 1. Jarvis Varnado (MSU) - 67.5 2. Storm Warren (LSU) - 64.3 3. Patrick Patterson (UK) - 62.5 4. Murphy Holloway (UM) - 59.5 5. Ravern Johnson (MSU) - 56.0.

Coming in at No. 7 is UK's John Wall at 54.0%, and at No. 8 UK's DeMarcus Cousins (52.9%).

Three-Point FG % (min. 2.5 made per game) -- 1. Rotnei Clarke (ARK) - 53.9 2. Ravern Johnson (MSU) - 50.0 3. Frankie Sullivan (AU) - 41.3 4. Chris Warren (UM) - 39.8.

Somebody get a hand in Clarke's face.

Assists Per Game -- 1. John Wall (UK) - 7.1 2. Mikhail Torrance (UA) - 5.5 t3. Dee Bost (MSU) - 5.4 t3. Julysses Nobles (ARK) - 5.4 5. Erving Walker (UF) - 5.1.

Steals Per Game -- 1. John Wall (UK) - 2.8 2. Devan Downey (SC) - 2.4 3. Ricky McPhee (UGA) - 2.1 4. DeWayne Reed (AU) - 2.0 5. Eniel Polynice (UM) - 1.9.

Free Throw % (min. 2.5 made per game) -- 1. Frankie Sullivan (AU) - 93.3 2. Mikhail Torrance (UA) - 90.9 3. Kodi Augustus (MSU) - 87.1 t4. Dustin Ware (UGA) - 82.8 t4. Trey Thompkins (UGA) - 82.8.

UK's John Wall checks in at No. 8, making 78.7% of his free throws.

Blocked Shots -- 1. Jarvis Varnado (MSU) - 5.3 2. Sam Muldrow (SC) - 3.3 3. Reginald Buckner (UM) - 2.4 4. JaMychal Green (UA) - 2.3 5. DeMarcus Cousins (UK) - 2.2.

Cousins is averaging less than 20 minutes per game!

Offensive Rebounds -- 1. Storm Warren (LSU) - 5.1 2. Patrick Patterson (UK) - 4.2 3. DeMarcus Cousins (UK) - 3.6 4. Murphy Holloway (UM) - 3.3 t5. JaMychal Green (UA) - 3.0 t5. Jarvis Varnado (MSU) - 3.0.

Patterson and Cousins average nearly as many offensive boards per game as the entire South Carolina team. Paying attention, Darren Horn?

Defensive Rebounds -- 1. Jarvis Varnado (MSU) - 7.1 2. Tasmin Mitchell (LSU) - 6.4 3. Storm Warren (LSU) - 6.3 4. Lucas Hargrove (AU) - 5.6 5. Patrick Patterson (UK) - 5.4.

UK's DeMarcus Cousins comes in at No. 8 with 4.7 defensive rebounds per game.

Assist/TO Ratio -- 1. Tyler Smith (UT) - 4.1 2. Chris Bass (LSU) - 2.9 3. Kenny Boynton (UF) - 2.3 4. Bobby Maze (UT) - 2.3 5. Erving Walker (UF) - 2.2.

John Wall is ranked No. 10 at 1.6. Very impressive number for Tyler Smith, and it may be indicative of the focus he has this season.

Bad Conference Losses -- Alabama (Cornell), Arkansas (Morgan State, East Tennessee State, and South Alabama), Auburn (Missouri State, Central Florida, and Troy), Georgia (Wofford and UAB), Mississippi State (Rider and Richmond), Vanderbilt (Western Kentucky).

Good Conference Wins -- Alabama (Michigan), Auburn (Virginia), Florida (Michigan State), Kentucky (Stanford, North Carolina, and UConn), Mississippi State (UCLA ... kind of), Mississippi (Kansas State), Vanderbilt (Arizona and Missouri).

Individual and Team Points of Interest

Rotnei Clarke scored 51 points versus Alcorn State ... In that game he made 13 three-point shots ... Clarke made 10 threes in a game versus East Tennessee State ... Devan Downey dropped 34 points on Jacksonville ... DeMarcus Cousins, Patrick Patterson and Tasmin Mitchell have all corralled 18 rebounds in a game this year ... John Wall dished out 14 dimes against UNC Asheville, and 11 versus Rider ... Dee Bost and Julysses Nobles each handed out 11 assists in games this year ... Jarvis Varnado has twice blocked eight shots this season ... Arkansas scored 130 points against Alcorn State ... Tennessee scored 124 points against UNC Asheville ... Arkansas shot 65.9% from the field against Delaware State ... Arkansas, Tennessee, and Mississippi State have all made 16 three-pointers in games this year ... Arkansas made 35-45 free throws against Morgan State and still lost ... Auburn pulled down 52 rebounds versus Alabama A&M ... Florida and Vanderbilt both have games where they recorded 51 rebounds ... Tennessee dished out an astounding 34 assists in their contest with UNC Asheville ... UK handed out 28 dimes versus the same club ... Mississippi and Tennessee have both recorded 17 steals in games this year.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

When I Think of Indiana

Ken Howlett — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 06:23:35 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

Kentucky coach John Calipari asking for directions to "that place Knight use to coach."

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Today's 12:00 pm EST (CBS) match-up between the No. 4 ranked Kentucky Wildcats (9-0), and Indiana Hoosiers (4-4) at Assembly Hall in Bloomington, marks the renewal of Kentucky's original rivalry game. The 'Cats and Hoosiers have hooked up 52 times since 1924, with 44 of those games being played since 1965. The rivalry has been peppered with colorful characters, close games, upsets, wide margins, and landscape-changing contests. It's a rivalry that has eclipsed time, and today stands as one of the hottest non-conference rivalries in college basketball.

UK versus IU elicits varying images, based on which side of the Ohio River ones loyalty lies, but for me, when I think of Indiana, I think of ...

... The only double-overtime game played between the two schools -- Played on December 11, 1971 at Freedom Hall, the 'Cats came into the game ranked as the No. 7 team in the country, while Indiana was unranked. But behind what is possibly the most outstanding individual performance in the history of the rivalry -- Steve Downing's 47 points, on 19-35 shooting -- IU overcame the talent gap and beat the 'Cats 90-89. Jim Andrews led UK that day with 22 points.

... Hoosier head coach Bob Knight slapping the back of Joe Hall's head on December 7, 1974 -- In that 98-74 Indiana win, in which UK was ranked No. 15 in the land to IU's No. 3, coach Knight ventured to the Wildcat bench to lodge a complaint with an official who was standing near Hall. Words were exchanged between the two, and what had been a cordial relationship quickly turned sour when Knight smacked Hall across the back of his head. UK assistant Lynn Nance was so irate, coach Hall had to physically restrain him from attacking Knight. Needless to say, the intensity of the rivalry grew exponentially at the moment Knight connected with Hall's head.

... The Elite Eight game played between the two powerhouse programs on March 22, 1975 -- IU came into the game the undefeated, No. 1 ranked team in the land. But on that day, Kentucky, led by Mike Flynn's 22 points, as well as four other double-digit scoring Wildcats, defeated the "un-defeatable", 92-90, in one of the greatest NCAA Tournament games ever played.

... The Hoosiers 1976 undefeated National Championship team -- One of the best college basketball teams in the history of the sport, they ran, defended, and pick and rolled their way to a 35-0 record. The last team to go through an entire season unbeaten. Led by Quinn Buckner, Scott May, and Kent Benson, that group of Hoosiers gave Bob Knight the first of his three NCAA championships.

... The UK vs. IU game on December 15, 1979 -- Indiana came into the contest ranked as the No. 1 team in the country. Led by Isiah Thomas and Ray Tolbert, the Hoosiers succumbed, though, to the Kyle Macy-led 'Cats in Rupp Arena, 69-58.

... December 6, 1980, in a season in which IU won Bob Knight's second national title, No. 5 Indiana playing in Assembly Hall, lost to the No. 2 ranked 'Cats, 68-66 -- Led by Fred Cowan and Sam Bowie's 14 points apiece, Kentucky overcame the terrific tandem of Isiah Thomas (20 points), and Landon Turner (15 points).

... March 30, 1981 -- The same day President Ronald Reagan was shot in Washington, DC, the Hoosiers capped off a 26-9 season by winning the National Championship, 63-50, over the North Carolina Tar Heels. That year the Hoosiers were led, once again, by the ankle-breaking Isiah Thomas, and forward Landon Turner.

... Only four months after winning the national championship, IU's Landon Turner was paralyzed in a single-car accident -- Although he would never play basketball again, Turner, a McDonald's All-America in 1978, was drafted in the 1982 NBA Draft by Red Auerbach; this was Auerbach's way of showing his great respect for Turner. Turner did, though, return to the IU campus in the fall of '82, and graduated with a B.A. in physical education in 1984.

... The General's chair toss -- On February 23, 1985, in a 72-63 home loss to Purdue (a team Knight HATED losing to), the IU coach became a bit "overheated," and reaching for his jacket to toss, instead grabbed his chair, and tossed it across the court while a Boilermaker was standing ready to shoot at the free throw line. Of course, Knight's act has become a part of college basketball lore, and will forever be linked to the Hall of Fame coach.

... UK's 63-58 victory over a Steve Alford-less Indiana on December 7, 1985 -- In a game I attended, the Hoosiers, ranked No. 19 in the country, were without their star guard because Alford posed for an IU sorority fund-raising calendar. When Knight discovered the unintentional indiscretion, he sat his sharp-shooter for fear of being forced by the NCAA to relinquish a possible victory over No. 9 UK. The game was tight the entire contest, and after the game, Knight and UK coach Eddie Sutton were involved in a shouting match in the bowels of Rupp Arena over the selection of the officiating crew. The two coaches already tense relationship was rendered non-existent thereafter.

... Keith Smart draining an 8-footer in the final seconds to win coach Knight his third and final national championship in April of 1987 -- The 74-73 victory over Jim Boeheim's Syracuse Orangemen (led by Sherman Douglas and Rony Seikaly) capped off a remarkable 30-4 campaign for the Hoosiers. Indiana was led by All-America Steve Alford and Daryl Thomas.

... Kentucky's 82-76 overtime victory over the No. 5 ranked Hoosiers on December 5, 1987 in the Big Four Classic -- UK, ranked No. 2 in the nation, was led by Ed Davender and Rex Chapman who combined to score 42 points.

... Damon Bailey and the Hoosiers laying the good wood to the No. 1 ranked 'Cats on December 4, 1993 -- Playing at the Hoosier Dome in Indianapolis, Bailey led the No. 21 Hoosier domination by scoring 29 points in IU's 96-84 upset of Kentucky. Travis Ford and Roderick Rhodes combined to score 39 points in UK's losing cause.

... UK's 70-61 epic overtime victory on December 8, 1998 -- Heshimu Evans scored 22 points for the 'Cats in their win over the No. 11 Hoosiers. IU was led in scoring by the perpetually disliked Luke Recker, who had 18.

... Indiana coach Mike Davis going nuclear on December 21, 2002 -- In No. 16 UK's victory over No. 6 Indiana at Freedom Hall (a game I attended ... and enjoyed immensely) the IU head coach ran uninhibited onto the playing floor, and refused to leave ... during game action, because of a perceived poor call by the officiating crew. The resulting technicals, of which there were two, sealed the 70-64 win for the 'Cats. Those few minutes remain the most surreal moments of any college basketball game I've witnessed.

... All the great ones the Hoosier state let slip away ... away to where basketball is best played - LeRoy Edwards, Cliff Barker, Tommy Kron, Mike Flynn, Larry Steele, Louie Dampier, Kyle Macy, James Blackmon, Jim Master, Roger Harden, and Sean Woods. All Indiana natives, all Wildcats for life.

Series Facts and Figures

UIK holds a 29-23 advantage in the rivalry ... The initial game in the rivalry was a 20-18 Indiana win on December 18, 1924 ... Between 1924 and 1944, the 'Cats and Hoosiers played eight games, with IU winning six ... The rivalry was renewed, after 21 years, in the championship game of the UKIT in 1965, a 91-56 Wildcat win ... In the 44 games played since 1965, UK has won 27 and lost 17 ... Since 1965, both teams have been ranked in 26 of the 44 games ... In the history of the rivalry, both teams have put together long winning streaks - IU six in a row ('24-'42), UK five in row ('43-'70), IU five in a row ('71-'74), UK five in a row ('94-'98), UK five in a row ('00-'04) ... UK is 3-10 in Assembly Hall versus Indiana ... When UK has been the higher ranked team, the 'Cats are 17-7 ... In the four games played between December of '89 and January of '91, the average margin of victory was 2.5 points (UK was 2-2 in those four games) ... Since 1965, 17 games have been decided by five points or less (UK leads 11-6), and there have been six overtime games (UK is 3-3) ... Since 1991, UK holds a 14-4 victory advantage over the Hoosiers.

Fearless Prediction

Kentucky 78 Indiana 64

For a look at Tru and sylvar's excellent pregame analysis, scroll down the front page, or click here.

Thanks for reading, and Go Cats, beat Indiana!

UK Athletics: The Good, the Bad, and the Hilarious

Ken Howlett — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:43:48 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

More, please.

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With the basketball 'Cats fresh off their 68-66 victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels, and the football 'Cats officially going country with their third Music City Bowl invite in four years, there is much happening in the world of Kentucky sports. While normally I write about a particular event or topic, today I'm going to venture into the realm of diversification and include in this post thoughts on the happenings of UK basketball and football.

For more, make the jump with me:

The Good

Fast-break 'Cats -- For those who witnessed UK's roller-coaster win over North Carolina on Saturday, you saw nine minutes and twenty-eight seconds of near perfection. With UK down 9-2 at the 17:16 mark of the first half, the 28-2 Big Blue blitzkrieg that followed, had me, 'ol Roy, and anyone else watching wondering if the Wildcats would pulverize our powder blue rivals into submission before halftime. For nearly ten minutes the 'Cats did what they do best, and that is leave it to John Wall to gallop at a break-neck pace; passing, shooting, and alley-ooping his way into the hearts of Kentucky fans (and NBA scouts).

During UK's dominant first-half demonstration Wall scored seven points, and assisted on four of UK's other eight made baskets. He loudly and proudly announced to the world that the hype surrounding his "game" is not only justified, but it may be understated.

Also getting into the act during UK's nine-and-a-half minutes of bliss were: Darius Miller -- Two three-pointers, a mid-range jumper, two steals, and one assist: Patrick Patterson -- A jumper, dunk, layup, and two free throws: Darnell Dodson contributed a three-pointer and a steal.

During a stretch most coaches only dream about, the 'Cats made 11-14 shots (with six assists), pilfered the Heels four times, and committed only two turnovers (neither by a guard). UK's stifling defense (with an assist to the pace) held the Tar Heels to only 1-9 shooting, while forcing eight turnovers.

From down 9-2, to up 30-11 in less than half of a half -- No one, and I mean no one will want to run with this team. If Roy Williams, possibly the elite fast break coach in the country, doesn't want any part of the John Wall-led "Wonder of Me Tour," no coach interested in winning will be enthused to see Wall streaking unmolested toward the basket with a team of thoroughbreds filling the lane, or waiting to pop from the perimeter. To emasculate a lesser-team in such a way is impressive, but North Carolina's roster is filled with talent, which makes what I saw awe-inspiring.

UK won despite a sub-par performance by DeMarcus Cousins -- Many so-called experts have prognosticated that Kentucky cannot beat good teams (and therefore, be a Final Four contender), without Cousins being a major force. Bull excrement!

Patrick Patterson, Daniel Orton, and Perry Stevenson displayed why the mercurial Cousins, while very talented, is not the key to UK's low post play -- Patterson produced a typical PPat game: 19 points, seven rebounds, one block and one steal, while Orton and Stevenson combined to play 26 minutes and produced five rebounds, three blocks, one steal, and one assist.

As long as Patterson has another player of size working with him down low, taking a bit of the defensive pressure off, he is capable of handling the workload. He's proved that for two-plus years.

UK won despite John Wall missing seven straight minutes of action -- I admit, when Wall started limping, I started pacing.

When Wall left the game in the second half at the 18:46 mark (and began his hypodermic-dodging journey back to the floor), UK was up 45-30. When Wall reappeared, much to the delight of the record-setting Rupp Arena crowd (as well as millions of palpitating UK fans at home), at the 11:44 mark, Kentucky was up 54-42. My calculator says UNC outscored the 'Cats 12-9 in that nerve-racking stretch of the game. Not bad when one considers Wall is the heart and soul of what makes UK go.

The 'Cats did commit four turnovers (two by Bledsoe, one each by Patterson and Ramon Harris), and they made only 4-12 shots (three of the makes were by Patterson) during the stretch, but they held serve, they preserved the lead, and that's all that really matters. Good teams win despite adversity. The fulfillment of that adage was on full display Saturday afternoon.

The final two minutes -- With UK clinging to a 61-56 lead over the Heels (at the two minute mark), freshmen guards John Wall and Eric Bledsoe refused to allow the 'Cats to lose. Over the two minutes that mean the most, Wall and Bledsoe combined to make five of six free throws, stole a pass (Wall), made a layup (Bledsoe), and dished out an assist (Wall).

The "Cool Hand Luke" demeanor in which these two players perform in end-game scenarios, at such a young age, cannot be overstated. Some players are simply gifted with the absence of fear. We are now watching two such gifted athletes. Enjoy 'em while ya got 'em.

UPDATE -- Kentucky's three-point threat -- With UK's 6-16 (37.5%) three-point shooting against North Carolina, the 'Cats trey accuracy now stands at 37.9% (50-132) on the year.

Led by Darius Miller's 40.0% shooting (14-35), Kentucky is quickly putting to rest the preseason questioning of their perimeter game. Eric Bledsoe, who's only weakness was thought to be his shooting, has pitched-in to the tune of 12 made treys on 25 attempts (48.0%); Darnell Dodson, now liberated from the Calipari doghouse, has made a respectable 38.5% (10-26), and possesses one of the sweetest strokes this side of Chris Lofton; and finally, Patrick Patterson continues to impress with his outside shot by making 6-14 (42.9%).

I don't know when UK's perimeter game ceases to be a cause for concern, but I sense the time is near.

Music City Bowl invite -- While many UK fans are unhappy about returning to Nashville for the third time in four years, I choose instead to celebrate four straight years of UK bowl games. It's a milestone for the program, and a tribute to one of the best senior classes in Kentucky football history.

So many 'Cats had outstanding seasons -- Derrick Locke, Randall Cobb, Micah Johnson, Sam Maxwell, La 'Rod King, and John Conner all produced fantastic individual years. They, as well as the other 'Cats, deserve the full support of the BBN while they do battle with C.J. Spiller and the Clemson Tigers in the Music City Bowl.

Football 'Cats honored -- It was announced Monday that five UK football players were selected by the Associated Press as All-SEC performers -- Randall Cobb: First Team all-purpose player -- Corey Peters: Second Team defensive tackle -- Sam Maxwell: Second Team linebacker -- Derrick Locke: Second Team all-purpose player -- Zipp Duncan: Honorable Mention offensive lineman.

Congratulations to all the 'Cats selected, with one caveat -- Sam Maxwell deserved First Team honors. He was second in the SEC with six interceptions, and he made big play after key play in UK's road victories over Auburn, Georgia, and Vanderbilt. I honestly can't think of another SEC linbacker that I would have rather had.

The Bad

The DeMarcus Cousins in-game pout -- I was the same way at his age -- I allowed (perceived) poor officiating to get in my head.

What Cousins has to realize is: DON'T ALLOW THE OFFICIALS TO BEAT YOU TWICE. It's comparable to a golfer allowing one bad shot to adversely effect his next shot. It's a recipe for pine-time, and unfulfilled potential.

Although I feel confident John Calipari will work his pupil through this flaw in his game, it may take some time. Cousins, afterall, is accustomed to getting all the calls in high school, he's accustomed to bullying his foes, not being on the receiving end of such physical play (and there definitely was an abundance of physical play on Saturday). Well, this ain't high school ball, DeMarcus. Adjust accordingly, and become the beast that is within you.

Underused Patterson -- With the absence of John Wall from the 18:46 mark to the 11:44 mark of the second half, one would expect Patrick Patterson to become that which the offense runs through. Well apparently, one would be wrong.

During that seven minute stretch, Patterson took exactly four shots, with one of those shots being an offensive rebound of his only miss (of that stretch). UK's big man, and best player (if Wall isn't on the floor), simply has to receive more touches if such a predicament faces UK in the future.

I realize Eric Bledsoe was playing erratically at the time, he was ... trying to do too much while Wall was sidelined. But what young Mr. Bledsoe would be wise to remember is that he needs to run the offense through Patterson, ensure the big fella gets his touches, and everything else will open up.

Sam Maxwell's labrum tear and Micah Johnson's omission -- The terrible news out of the Nutter Complex that Sam Maxwell will miss the Music City Bowl was most unpleasant for this UK fan. Maxwell, a senior, played sparingly through his first three years in Lexington, opting to patiently wait his turn in lieu of transferring. And when earning the opportunity to start, the Georgia native put up big numbers, and made game-changing plays. My thanks to Maxwell for a job well done, and good luck at the next level.

Maxwell's senior statistics -- 80 tackles (42 solo) (second on the team), 5.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, six interceptions (second in the SEC), seven pass breakups, and two forced fumbles.

Micah Johnson's omission from the AP All-SEC team is laughable. UK's senior middle linebacker posted 100 tackles (fifth in the SEC) , 6.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups, and one sack. And he did all of this while battling plantar fasciitis and a bad ankle for most of the year.

The Hilarious

I like John Calipari. I've liked him since he brought his UMass team to Rupp Arena in December of 1991. He impressed me then, and he's impressed me ever since; he's a fine coach, and a great recruiter. A fan can't ask for much more.

But, his "like-ability" quotient shot through the roof Saturday, when after the game he said the following (paraphrasing) -- When I saw where Seth Davis predicted us to lose, I knew we had a chance.

Most UK fans know Seth Davis, and most UK fans don't like Seth Davis. He speaks of that which he doesn't know, and is paid handsomely to do so. Which is why I spewed my just ingested Coca-Cola all over my carpet when Calipari called a spade ... a spade.

Thanks, coach, finally someone with credibility called-out a national media member, and did so without hesitation.

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

Kentucky vs. North Carolina: Re-Animating the Empire

Ken Howlett — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 03:36:40 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

It's time for Kentucky to flush the past four years.

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This is what college basketball in the Bluegrass is all about.

UK versus North Carolina; the two winningest programs in the history of college basketball. UCLA, Kansas, Indiana, and Duke, although great programs, will always be pretenders when it comes to claiming the title of "King of College Basketball." No, that illustrious title belongs to ... at present, the Tar Heels of North Carolina: Two national championships in the last five years; three Final Fours in the last five seasons; a 183-38 overall record (.828) since the 2003-'04 season (Roy Williams' first in Chapel Hill); a 72-24 conference record (.750) in the last six years; winners of five straight games over UK; and a 21-4 NCAA Tournament record since Williams took over the reins from the deposed Matt Doherty.

Compare Carolina's numbers to UK's over the last six years -- 139-63 record (.688); 65-31 SEC record (.676); zero Final Fours; 6-5 NCAA Tournament record -- and most 'Cat fans, regardless of how die-hard and loyal, must admit the powder blue has overtaken Big Blue as the preeminent college basketball program in the nation.

And it's not as if the Tar Heels are nouveau riche, either. Their winning tradition goes back nearly as far as UK's. Carolina boasts George Glamack, National Player of the Year in both 1940 and '41, and behind the 1957 National Player of the Year, Lennie Rosenbluth, the Heels won their first NCAA championship. The Tar Heel legacy of great players is filled with familiar names -- Phil Ford, James Worthy, Michael Jordan, Charlie Scott, Kenny Smith, Mitch Kupchak, Pete Brennan, Billy Cunningham, Sam Perkins, and Bobby Jones -- All either National Player of the Year, ACC Player of the Year, or ACC Rookie of the Year.

Today, though, marks the first, best chance Kentucky has of reclaiming the mantle of college basketball supremacy. With the hiring of John Calipari as UK basketball coach, and his incredible recruiting ability, the 'Cats are now in position to do what it is they do ... win championships, and beat the best teams in the land.

Some wise sports writers (read: John Clay) have pontificated that this game means nothing in the larger scheme of things. Afterall, it's December, still a full month away from the games that really count. But today's contest represents the opportunity for UK to show the nation that they are back. Back from their deep slumber, back from the near-dead. By beating (powder) blue blooded Carolina, the channeling of Lazarus will be initiated, and the statement made by Big Blue will be heard from Maine, to Minnesota, to Westwood -- The 'Cats are back, and they're pissed. Tired of being the whipping boys of the national media, tired of being the whipping boys of the Florida's, the Vandy's, and the Kansas' ... this Kentucky team has the talent, the coaching, and the motivation to impel UK to re-take it's rightful place among the elite of college basketball. And it all starts today with a victory.

I realize Carolina comes into Lexington the No. 10 ranked team in the land. I realize Roy Williams has a roster full of hamburger All-Americas. I realize the Carolina roster is littered with great length. I realize Carolina is a much more experienced ball club than the 'Cats, and I realize Kentucky relies heavily on four fuzzy-faced freshmen to lead the team to victory. But there will be no denying UK that which is theirs. This UK team is full of winners, full of players who know how to win, because that's all they have done for their entire lives. But more importantly ...

No longer is Patrick Patterson the lonesome warrior ... He now has (actual point guards) John Wall and Eric Bledsoe to feed him the ball, and hit game-changing shots ... He now has DeMarcus Cousins, the man-child playing by his side, ensuring he's not double-and-triple teamed, as well as snagging every available rebound as if it's the last T-bone in Texas ... He now has Daniel Orton to competently spell him so he doesn't have to abuse his body by playing every second of every game ... He now has John Calipari who knows how to use a man gifted with such extreme talent.

And finally, most importantly, ALL of the 'Cats will have a full, ravenous, electrified, rockin' Rupp Arena crowd, which will refuse to allow the 'Cats to lose. The fans, those who pay the high price for season tickets, as well as those happy wanderers who pay as they go ... those are the people who have suffered through the indignity of the last four years. Those who tune in every time the 'Cats don the uniform and cheer until hoarse-voiced ... those are the fans who will not allow Carolina to quash the Big Blue resurrection. We, the fans, simply can't leave all the heavy lifting to the players. We must will the victory, if defeat seems imminent, because this game is just the first step in a series of steps designed to demonstrate that Kentucky basketball, the original gangsta, is back on the block and ready to reclaim territory lost.

We've filled Rupp to it's rafters even though the 'Cats were less than they should be. We've supported the program, even though it was hard to support. We've bemoaned our fate, because it is afterall, our team. So now that greatness is within this team's grasp, and therefore our grasp, Carolina must serve as the first domino to go down. Releasing the energy to propel us, and our team, back where we belong.

FYI

How have previous UK coaches fared in their first rivalry game? Joe Hall lost to Indiana, 64-58, on December 9, 1972; Eddie Sutton beat Indiana, 63-58, on December 7, 1985; Rick Pitino lost to Indiana, 71-69, on December 2, 1989; Tubby Smith beat Indiana, 75-72, on December 6, 1997; and Billy Gillispie lost to North Carolina, 86-77, on December 1, 2007.

Click here for Tru and Sylvar's excellent pre-game analysis.

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

UK Basketball: Grading the 'Cats

Ken Howlett — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 04:28:35 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

Early term grades are out, and a celebration is in order.

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With the "soft" portion of the Kentucky schedule now in the rear-view mirror, and dates with No. 10 North Carolina, No. 14 Connecticut, No. 20 Louisville, and Indiana looming large in Big Blue's headlights, it's time to cast a critical eye toward the progress of this youthful edition of the 'Cats. We've all heard and read John Calipari plead for patience with this group ... don't expect too much, too soon, has been his oft-heard mantra. And while I certainly agree this team is an unfinished work of art, following closely the evolution of Cal's (would be) masterpiece is too tempting to toss aside.

For the particulars, follow me after the jump:

The Good-to-Excellent

Overall team shooting -- The 'Cats are currently shooting the ball at an exceptional 51.5% rate of accuracy, good for 10th in the nation. Leading the way by shooting 69.1%, is junior forward Patrick Patterson. Patterson has made 47 of 68 shots, as well as making 38.5%% of this trey attempts (5-13). Patterson's post teammate, freshman DeMarcus Cousins, is shooting 55.8% from the floor (43-77). Freshman guard John Wall has made 55.6% of his shots from the floor (35-63), and big man Daniel Orton at 50.0% (11-22) rounds out the four 50.0%+ shooters (with at least 20 shots taken) UK currently boasts. Close behind that quartet is Darnell Dodson, who's made 15-31 from the field, good for 48.4%. For those concerned with points-per-possession; UK is averaging 1.16, good for 17th in the nation.

Considering two of the 'Cats' primary scoring threats can be found down on the blocks (Patterson, Cousins), one can reasonably expect the teams shooting percentage to remain hovering around the 50.0% mark for most of the year. And so far, the shot selection of the UK guards has been solid, if not spectacular, and shot selection, i.e. taking good shots, is the key to shooting a high percentage. Even though UK's competition ramps up considerably in the coming weeks, if Wall, Dodson, Eric Bledsoe (44.4%), and Darius Miller (40.0%) continue to be selective, and take shots via the offensive game-plan, as well as continue to score easy fast-break baskets, the 'Cats' shooting should continue to be checked off as a positive in the season's ledger.

Coming into the season, the guards' overall shooting was a major concern for most UK fans, ergo, I have to award a well-earned A in this category.

Three-point shooting -- If there was a bigger concern than the overall shooting of UK's freshmen and sophomore guards, it was their potential three-point shooting numbers that most kept UK fans up at night wondering where their Jodie Meeks had gone. Well, as of yet, the troubled minds of the BBN seems to have been fraught with angst for no good reason: With no less than three shooters (taking a minimum of 20 threes) making at least 40.0% of their trey tries (Bledsoe - 52.2%, Dodson - 40.0%, Miller - 40.0%), UK is sporting a very respectable 37.9% three-point shooting percentage. Also getting into the act, as promised, is Patrick Patterson. The big fella is showin' the NBA he has mad range, making five of 13 threes (38.5%) so far this season.

Although it's not yet time to exhale, the perimeter shooting of this group has been a major surprise, especially considering the person thought to be UK's best outside shooter (Dodson) has missed three games. A 37.9% make rate on threes earns this category a solid A.

Offensive rebounding -- Kentucky's big man combination of Patterson (31), Cousins (28), and Orton (10) have combined to grab 69 offensive rebounds in only seven games (a cumulative 9.9 per game). As a team, UK has snagged 21 more offensive boards than their opponents, a welcome change from the numbers we've witnessed over the last few years.

UK's offensive rebound percentage is ranked fourth nationally at 45.9%, but before we throw the boys on the blocks a way-to-go party, keep in mind these numbers were accumulated against inferior, and many times, much smaller front lines than UK will encounter in the coming months. But, as long as they continue to crash the offensive boards aggressively, I feel confident this group will continue to snag more than their share of offensive rebounds.

Fourth nationally ... it doesn't get much better than that. Once again, an A is in order.

Overall rebounding -- As expected, UK is averaging a +12.4 in overall rebounding. With Patterson (10.6), Cousins (8.6 in an average of 20.0 minutes per game), Ramon Harris (4.1 in an average of 16.7 mpg), and Orton (3.3 in an average of 14.7 mpg) crashing the boards with abandon, Kentucky's domination of the glass has been thorough.

As is true with most of the early-season statistics, UK's overall rebounding will be put to a sterner test beginning with Saturday's game against North Carolina. But, posting a +12.4 at any point in the season is certainly commendable, and deserving of another A.

Shot block differential -- Kentucky's big men have blocked a total of 58 shots (8.3 per game), good for first nationally. DeMarcus Cousins (18) and Daniel Orton (12) have led the Big Blue block party to this point in the year. Kentucky's opponents, on the other hand, have blocked only 18 shots (2.6 per game), for an excellent +5.7 differential.

Shot blocking was thought to be a positive for this year's team, and they have not disappointed. Why break the streak ... another A for UK's block monsters.

Overall opponents' field goal shooting -- UK is adeptly holding their opponents to only 36.6% floor shooting, which is good for 20th in the nation. As is true with many of the above categories, this number can be traced back to the level of competition UK has faced thus far, coupled with the effectiveness at guarding the basket UK's big men have displayed to this point in the season.

While I expect the current 36.6% number to rise slightly, a realistic goal of this group should be to hold opponents to sub-40.0% shooting on the season. A solid B+ is much deserved.

Team chemistry -- There are no stats to dissect, no numbers to crunch (except 7-0), but this team seems to like one another. I'm not at practice, but from all reports, the team members' desire to win trumps their desire to put up individual numbers.

This area was a slight concern coming into the season, so a feeling of relief results in a very well-deserved A+.

The Average-to-Below-Average

Turnover differential -- Kentucky is averaging 17.1 turnovers per game, while their opponents are averaging only 14.9 turnovers per game. These numbers are a function of UK's youth, and the fact that the team hasn't displayed the defensive tenacity often related to a John Calipari-coached team. The two primary ball-handlers for the 'Cats, John Wall (4.0 per game) and Eric Bledsoe (4.3 pg), have combined to commit 54 turnovers, which, considering their freshman status and pace of play, aren't terrible numbers, but there is certainly room for improvement, which should come as the players become more experienced and accustomed to the offensive sets.

Considering the 'Cats are going to run with the ball if given the opportunity, somewhere near 14-15 turnovers per game is an acceptable average. And as the team learns and executes Calipari's defensive desires, UK's forced turnovers, otherwise known as steals (currently averaging 7.0 per game), should also increase. But at the moment, the best I can award is a tepid C-.

Free throw shooting -- As a team UK is shooting a mediocre 66.8% from the charity stripe. Only John Wall (80.4%), Eric Bledsoe (88.2%), and Darius Miller (88.9%) are shooting the rock with aplomb from the free throw line.

The Scooby Doo crew is needed to unravel the mystery of Patrick Patterson's sudden shakiness from the line -- Coming into this season, Patterson was 216-287 for his career (75.3%), but this year he's making his free tries at only a 51.7% rate (15-29). Considering Patterson will take upward of 150 free throws on the year, with many of those coming at critical junctures, solving the Patterson free throw puzzle must be done, and soon.

It was heartening to see DeMarcus Cousins make eight of 11 free throws against UNC-Asheville Monday night in Freedom Hall, after he made only 18-36 (50.0%) up to that point in the season. Practice produces confidence, DeMarcus. Thanks for demonstrating that fact live, and in color.

On the plus side of the season ledger is the fact that UK's primary ball-handlers are all shooting their free throws at an excellent rate -- Wall, Bledsoe, and Miller are a combined 60-74 (81.1%).

Calipari's teams have often been plagued by poor free throw shooting, and it cost him a national title two years ago. This season Cal, has at times, made light of the poor free throw shooting this team has demonstrated, but no one will be laughing if their under-performance begins to cost the 'Cats victories. A shaky C- is all that is deserved at this point in the season for UK's (mostly) shaky free throw shooting.

Opponents three-point shooting -- UK ranks 218th in the nation in defending their opponents' three-point shooting, which stands at 35.7%. The horror show looks like this -- Miami - 57.7%, Sam Houston State - 47.4%, Stanford - 35.0%, UNC-Asheville - 40.0%.

Unacceptable ... there really isn't anything else one can say. Sure, UK is young, but youth is not an excuse for failing to get a hand in the shooter's face, or denying the shooter the ball. But, the team will learn defensive rotation in time, as well as the effort it takes to defend competently. Or at least they better, because we all know the three-point shot is the great equalizer. Grade? A well deserved F.

Early December Exam Results

Through seven games this team is showing why so many thought so highly of UK's chances of having a great season. Sure, they've had a couple of close shaves (Miami, Stanford), but with youth comes inexperience, i.e. taking opponents lightly, but as the season progresses, if they mature at an acceptable rate, this team should be very tough to beat regardless of the level of competition.

Freshman summation -- John Wall has been spectacular, if at times a bit too comfortable dribbling the ball; Eric Bledsoe has shown he CAN shoot the ball beyond 15 feet; DeMarcus Cousins is simply ferocious, if a bit too emotional; Darnell Dodson, if he can demonstrate a willingness to play defense, has the chance to be special at the two/three-spot; Daniel Orton has been a solid edtion to the low post with his solid shooting, and timely rebounding (10 offensive boards in only 14.7 mpg); Jon Hood hasn't played enough to render any meaningful words ( four games, 8.5 mpg), except ... I hope the Madisonville native gets a chance to shine.

As the team embarks on the rest of the season, the competition increases exponentially. Losses may be in the offing, but as they continue to learn the system, and learn each other, I expect mostly victories, with a chance for greatness.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

KENTUCKY vs. TENNESSEE: It Doesn't Get Any Bigger Than This

Ken Howlett — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 07:50:05 -0000

More photos » by John Amis - AP

Kentucky running back Derrick Locke will hopefully show his backside to the Volunteer defenders.

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We all know about the streak. We all are embarrassed by the streak. We're all tired of the streak. Afterall, losing 24 straight to any school, in any sport, is repulsive to most sports fan's sense of fair play. It's simply no fun playing the nail, opposite Tennessee's (6-5, 3-4) ball-peen hammer.

But this game tonight (7:00 PM) isn't about the streak. It isn't about 24 years of blowouts, near-misses, and overtime heartache. Rather, this game is about second place in the SEC East. Nothing else matters. All the pontificating about streaks are merely window dressing compared to the importance of the game at hand ... the importance of Kentucky (7-4, 3-4) overcoming major injuries to star players, the preseason loss of All-SEC defensive end Jeremy Jarmon, of having to play 11 straight games, and of losses that should have been wins ... for this program to still rise to a high level of accomplishment in spite of the adversity speaks volumes about the character of the young men wearing the blue and white, and about the elevated level of talent Rich Brooks and staff have brought to Lexington. And in a year where most predictors of such events had the Wildcats finishing considerably south of second place, for UK to play in the Outback or Chick-Fila Bowl would certainly be an attention-getter both nationally, and within the borders of the Commonwealth.

Four straight bowl games, and a 31-20 record over the last four years, topped off by a second place finish in arguably the most gruesome division in college football, would certainly qualify as a continuance of the Brooks building process. And for this group of 'Cats to continue to build on the unique accomplishments they are responsible for this season -- Winning three straight SEC road games since 1909-'12, beating Auburn for the first time since 1961, and beating Georgia between the hedges for the first time since 1977 -- adds to the legacy of Rich Brooks, but more importantly, enriches the perception of the Kentucky football program throughout the high schools of the south and beyond. Putting the Wildcats that much closer to the goal at-hand -- Becoming a football program that consistently competes at the highest level.

In order for Kentucky to take the next step, they must first conquer the demons in orange. Here is thine enemy:

Unit Comparison (SEC Rank in Parenthesis)

- Scoring Offense -- UT 30.6 points per game (5): UK's coring defense -- 22.2 points per game (7).
- Scoring Defense -- UT allows 20.7 points per game (t5): UK's scoring offense -- 26.5 points per game (7).
- Total Offense -- UT averages 390.8 yards per game (6): UK total defense -- 355.4 yards per game (8).
- Total Defense -- UT allows 313.2 yards per game (5): UK total offense -- 342.9 yards per game (10).
- Rush Offense -- UT rushes for 164.7 yards per game (7): UK rush defense -- 179.3 yards per game (11).
- Rush Defense -- UT allows 141.3 yards per game (6): UK rush offense -- 196.2 yards per game (5).
- Pass Offense -- UT throws for 226.1 yards per game (3): UK pass defense -- 176.1 yards per game (6).
- Pass Defense -- UT allows 171.9 yards per game (5): UK pass offense -- 146.7 yards per game (11).
- Sacks By -- UT has executed 19 sacks (9): UK sacks against -- 14 (5).
- Sacks Against -- UT has allowed only 11 sacks (1): UK sacks By -- 15 (12).
- Third Down Conversion -- UT is at 39.3% (6): UK third down conversion defense -- 39.0% (12).
- Third Down Conversion Defense -- UT allows a 34.4% conversion rate (5): UK third down conversion -- 39.8% (4).
- Turnover Margin -- UT is a + 4 (5): UK is a +3 (6).
- Red Zone Offense -- UT converts 41-46 (89.1%) of their RZ attempts (5): UK red zone defense -- 28-37 (75.7%) (5).
- Red Zone Defense -- UT has allowed 30-35 (85.7%) RZ scores: UK's red zone offense -- 33-40 (82.5%) (8).

The Tennessee Offense

Jonathan Crompton -- 6'4", 228 lb senior quarterback: This season the formerly embattled UT signal-caller has stepped-up his game considerably. He has completed 196 of 335 passes (58.5%) for 25 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Comparing Crompton's numbers last season -- 86-167 (51.5%) for 889 yards, four touchdowns and five interceptions -- to those of this year reveals a much-improved quarterback who has been trusted with the reins of the Tennessee offense.

Crompton has thrown only one interception in the last four games (122 passes). His two best games this season -- Versus Georgia, he threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns on 20-27 passing; Against Memphis, Crompton was 21-27 through the air for 331 yards and five touchdowns. Last season versus UK, Crompton was an 6-8 for 101 yards and one touchdown.

Montario Hardesty -- 6'0", 199 lb junior running back: Hardesty's production is another reason for UT's success this season. He's rushed for 1,127 yards (102.5 yards per game) on 225 carries (5.0 yards per carry), and nine touchdowns. He's also caught 19 passes for 212 yards (11.2 yards per reception), and one touchdown.

Last week in UT's 31-16 win over Vanderbilt, Hardesty rushed for a season-high 171 yards on 22 carries (7.8 ypc), and one touchdown. Hardesty has scored at least one touchdown in eight games this year, and he's ran for over 100 yards four times: WKU, Ohio U., South Carolina, and Vanderbilt.

Bryce Brown -- 6'0", 215 lb freshman running back: Brown has carried the ball 98 times for 452 yards (4.6 ypc), and three touchdowns. He's also caught 10 passes for 137 yards (13.7 ypr), and one touchdown.

Coming out of high school last year, Brown was rated the No. 1 running back, as well as the No. 1 overall prospect in the nation by Rivals.

David Oku -- 5'10", 186 lb freshman running back: Oku has rushed for 94 yards on 23 carries (4.0 ypc) and two touchdowns. Oku has caught two passes for 13 yards (6.5 ypr). He's also returned 30 kick-offs for 780- yards (26.0 yards per return).

The Oklahoma native recorded 154 all-purpose yards in UT's game versus Ole Miss. Coming out of high school last year, Oku was rated the No. 1 all-purpose back in the nation by Rivals, and the No. 30 running back by SuperPrep.

Gerald Jones -- 6'0", 190 lb junior wide receiver: In 10 games, Jones, UT's top receiver, has caught 36 passes for 497 yards (13.8 ypr) and four touchdowns. Last season versus UK, Jones caught a touchdown pass in the Tennessee victory.

Jones went for over 100 receiving yards versus Georgia -- Five catches for 105 yards, and two touchdowns. He also had strong outings against Auburn (seven catches for 75 yards), and Alabama (seven catches for 72 yards), but he's caught only one touchdown pass in the last three games (versus Memphis).

Denarius Moore -- 6'1", 190 lb junior wide receiver: Moore has made 35 catches for 455 yards (13.0 ypr), and six touchdowns.

Moore has scored four of his six touchdowns in the last three games.

Quintin Hancock -- 6'3", 207 lb senior wide receiver: In only eight games, Hancock has made 27 catches for 298 yards (11.0 ypr), and two touchdowns.

Marsalis Teague -- 5'10", 180 lb freshman wide receiver: Teague has 13 receptions for 147 yards (11.3 ypr), and two touchdowns.

Teague was rated the No. 4 prospect in the state of Tennessee out of high school by Rivals, as well as the No. 28 athlete in the nation, also by Rivals.

Luke Stocker -- 6'6", 240 lb junior tight end: Stocker has been an integral part of the UT offense, catching 22 passes for 292 yards (13.3 ypr), and four touchdowns.

The Tennessee Defense

Eric Berry -- 5'11", 203 lb junior corner back: Berry has made 75 tackles (49 solo), 5.0 tackles for loss, two interceptions, and six pass breakups.

The First Team All-SEC selection is UT's defensive force in the secondary, although UT defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin has been bringing Berry up support the run defense. Don't be surprised if Berry is asked to contain Randall Cobb in tonight's tilt.

Rico McCoy -- 6'1", 220 lb senior linebacker: McCoy leads the Vols with 99 tackles (59 solo). He's also posted 2.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups, four forced fumbles.

In 2006 versus UK, McCoy forced the first fumble of his career.

Dan Williams -- 6'3", 327 lb senior defensive tackle: Williams has recorded 56 tackles (28 solo), and he's tied for the team lead in tackles for loss with 8.5. He's also has 2.0 sacks, and a team-leading nine quarterback hurries.

In UT's four overtime victory over UK in 2007, Williams had a game-changing field goal block. Well, it wasn't so much as a block, as the ball being kicked directly into his face mask. There is no doubt that Williams is a defensive force that must be dealt with by the UK offensive line. They must keep him away from Morgan Newton, and run away from him in the ground game.

Chris Walker -- 6'3", 232 lb junior defensive end: Walker has made 34 tackles (16 solo), and he's tied for the team lead with 8.5 tackles for loss. He leads UT with 6.0 sacks, and he's also recorded two interceptions and one pass breakup.

Dennis Rogan -- 5'10", 178 lb defensive back: Rogan is third on the team with 56 tackles (35 solo). He's executed 4.0 tackles for loss, one sack, one interception, and five pass breakups. He's also recovered two fumbles. Rogan will also return punts. This season he's returned six punts for 46 yards (7.7 yards per return), and two kick-offs for 52 yards (26.0 ypr).

In 2007 versus UK, Rogan returned three punts for 24 yards (8.0 ypr), and two kick-offs for 48 yards (24 ypr). He had three tackles, including his first tackle for loss.

Chad Cunningham -- Cunningham serves as UT's punter and kick-off artist -- He's punted 44 times for a 41.5 average. He's kicked-off 64 times, and has only four touch-backs.

Daniel Lincoln, Cunningham, and Devin Mathis have all kicked field goals for the Vols this season -- Lincoln is 10-16 (62.5%), Cunningham is 1-2 (50.0%), and Mathis is 1-1 (100%). Lincoln missed last weeks Vanderbilt game.

The three have combined to miss only one field goal under 40 yards.

Tennessee Wins (Teams in bold represent common opponents)

63-7 over WKU, 34-23 over Ohio U., 45-19 over Georgia, 31-13 over South Carolina, 56-28 over Memphis, and 31-16 over Vanderbilt.

Tennessee Losses

19-15 to UCLA, 23-13 to Florida, 26-22 to Auburn, 12-10 to Alabama, 42-17 to Ole Miss.

CliffsNotes Analysis

Tonight's battle represents two teams vying to succeed in the same areas -- Even though UK's two biggest play-makers are banged up (Cobb's shoulder, and both of Locke's knees), after Ole Miss running back Dexter McCluster gashed the Vols for 282 yards on 25 carries (11.6 ypc) and four touchdowns, the 'Cats will look to gain the bulk of their yardage on the ground.

Although UT quarterback Jonathan Crompton has proved to be much improved over last year, because of UK's weak run defense, look for a steady diet of UT running backs looking for holes. Hardesty, Brown, and Oku will get a healthy dose of carries in an attempt to control the clock, and bury UK with a ground game suited to do just that.

Look for Randall Cobb to have a big day. Although Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin wasn't in place during Cobb's recruitment, I expect Cobb will be highly motivated to display to his hometown team what they are missing.

It's really pretty simple -- UK must run the ball to the tune of at least 4.5-5.0 yards per carry, and Morgan Newton must continue to come through in the clutch with on-target throws if UK hopes to come out victorious. Recently Newton has been excellent at not turning the ball over ... that trend must continue.

Likewise, UK's defense must find it within themselves to stop the run. UT's three primary ball-carriers are legitimate, dangerous weapons. The Vols rushing for 200 + yards will surely spell doom for the 'Cats.

Field position will also play a big role in tonight's outcome. With UK in possession of two of the best return men in the SEC (Cobb and Locke), this category seems to be a plus for the 'Cats.

Last week versus Georgia, UK saw first-hand the advantage gained by creating turnovers (they were +4). The 'Cats must continue to hit hard, hit often, and hit with a purpose. If the UK defense comes to play, I like the 'Cats chances of partying like it's 1984 -- UK's last victory over the Vols.

Fearless Prediction

Kentucky - 27 Tennessee - 24

For Tru's take on the game, and a listen to a podcast interview we did with the guys from Rocky Top Talk, please scroll down.

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

Kentucky Football: Giving Thanks to Those Deserving Much More

Ken Howlett — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:18:50 -0000

More photos » by John Amis - AP

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

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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 @ Georgia: Abbreviated Look at the Dogs

Ken Howlett — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 23:20:48 -0000

More photos » by Wily Low - AP

Will UK fans tear down the goal posts on an opponent's field?

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UK (6-4, 2-4 SEC), coming off a victory at Vanderbilt which secured the 'Cats' bowl eligibility, tackles the 6-4 (4-3 SEC) Georgia Bulldogs in Athens, Georgia tonight at 7:45 EST. Kentucky, hoping to improve the chances of playing a bowl game outside the state of Tennessee, haven't beaten the Bulldogs in Athens since 1977, a 33-0 'Cat-washing of the pre-Hershel Walker Bulldogs.

If UK clinches a winning season tonight, this is who they must execute the coup-de-tat against ... after the jump:

Joe Cox -- 6'1", 198 lb senior quarterback: Cox is 150-259 through the air, good for 2,059 yards, 12 interceptions and 18 touchdowns.

Caleb King -- 5'11", 210 lb redshirt sophomore running back: King, who only recently earned the starting spot at running back has rushed for 291 yards on 62 carries (4.7 yards per carry) and three touchdowns.

Washaun Ealey -- 5'11", 205 lb freshman running back: The true freshman has rushed 73 times for 379 yards (5.2 ypc) and three touchdowns. He also caught two passes for 26 yards (13.0 yards per reception).

Richard Samuel -- 6'2", 222 lb sophomore running back: Samuel has rushed 88 times for 395 yards (4.5 ypc) and two touchdowns. He's also caught six passes for 39 yards (6.5 ypr).

Tavarres King -- 6'1", 180 redshirt sophomore wide receiver: King is listed as No.1 on the depth chart at the receiver spot for Georgia even though he has made only 15 catches for 268 yards (17.9 ypr). He's scored one touchdown.

Aron White -- 6'4", 236 lb redshirt sophomore tight end: White has made nine catches for 151 yards (16.8 ypr), good for two touchdowns.

Michael Moore -- 6'2", 210 lb senior wide receiver: Moore is Georgia's leading receiver with A. J. Green out for the contest. Moore has caught 21 passes for 187 yards (8.9 ypr) and four touchdowns.

Orson Charles -- 6'3", 230 lb freshman tight end: Charles has made 16 catches for 284 yards (17.8 pr) and two touchdowns. Charles, along with fellow tight end Aron White will be utilized heavily in passing downs.

Prince Miller -- 5'8", 198 lb senior punt returner: Miller is one of he SEC's leading returners, averaging 12.1 yards per return on 17 punts.

Drew Butler -- Georgia's punter is one of the leading punters in the nation, averaging 49.0 yards per punt (45 punts).

There, folks, you have the high-points.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

UK 92, Rider 63 -- Post-Mortem

Ken Howlett — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 21:50:10 -0000

More photos » by James Crisp - AP

UK point guard John wall scores over Rider's Justin Robinson.

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Kentucky came to play this afternoon in the Wildcats' 92-63 victory over the Rider Broncs, that much is not up for debate. Impressive not only on the offensive end, the 'Cats brought their hard hats to the defensive end of the court, as John Calipari's club dropped the hammer on the Broncs' outside game, which should be a welcome sight to UK's coaching staff as well as Big Blue fans everywhere.

For more of the good stuff, follow me after the jump:

Patrick Patterson continues to grow his legend. UK's junior power forward grabbed a career-high 18 rebounds, with nine of those boards coming on the offensive end. His outstanding shooting also continued, as Patterson made eight of 13 shots. Freshman, shreshman, Patterson will be the big man on campus as long as he's wearing the blue and white.

Speaking of freshmen -- Point guard John Wall and his 360-degree acrobatics continues to impress. Wall, in 35 minutes of play, contributed a team-high 21 points to go with 11 assists; the first of what will be many double-doubles in the young star's future. In reaching his 21 points, Wall made eight of 12 shots (0-2 three-pointers) and more impressively, five of six free throws. He committed only two turnovers, had six rebounds, three steals and two blocked shots ... I think this kid is gonna be pretty good.
Wall's freshman guard counterpart, Eric Bledsoe, scored 11 points, but made only three of 10 shots. Not great, until one considers all three of his makes were of the three-point variety (out of six shots taken). He did commit a team-high five turnovers, but he helped offset that number by handing out one assist, blocking one shot, and committing two steals. Once again, encouraging to this fan, Bledsoe made 2-2 free throws.
Daniel Orton, the big man from Oklahoma, had his best game as a Wildcat this afternoon, making five of seven shots, and four of five free throws for 14 points. He also grabbed six rebounds, dished out one assist and had one steal. All of this in only 23 minutes of play. Orton is beginning to show that it's not all about DeMarcus Cousins and Patrick Patterson in the paint. After the tremendous play of Cousins so far this year, it's certainly good to see Orton assert himself, and fight for playing time.
Cousins, who made the mistake of fouling a three-point shooter, played only 15 minutes, but wow, he packs a lot into a quarter-of-an-hour -- 18 points (7-10 shooting), six rebounds (four offensive), five blocks, and one steal -- At half-time coach Calipari wasn't sure who to start in the second half, because Orton had been playing so well. Cal sent assistant John Robic to ask Cousins his thoughts on the matter, and Cousins told Robic to start Orton, not because he didn't want to play, but because, "Orton is playing so good." Sacrificing for the good of the team is a huge step in playing championship basketball, and Cousins seems to have already taken that step.
Darius Miller, in 23 minutes, scored five points and grabbed three rebounds. Impressively, he had three assists to zero turnovers. Miller, with his unselfish attitude, is apt to have games where his scoring suffers, but he is finding ways to help the team without lighting up the scoreboard.
As a team, UK once again shot the ball well, making 51.5% of their shots (34-66). Also, for the first time this season, the 'Cats handed out more assists (17), than turnovers (15).
UK's 10 blocks continues a trend I expect to see for the entire season.
The 'Cats made only four of 16 three-pointers (25.0%) on the day, but the guards (Wall, Bledsoe, and Miller) made four of 11 trey tries, good for a very acceptable 36.4%.
UK also improved their season free throw average by making 71.4% of their charity tries (20-28). The primary ball-handlers, Wall and Bledsoe, made seven of eight free throws.
Defensively, the 'Cats held the formerly hot shooting Broncs to only 31.0% on their field goal attempts, and finally, thankfully, the boys in blue guarded the perimeter like they meant it, allowing only four of 17 three-point shooting (23.5%). Coming into the game the Broncs were hitting the trey at a 48% rate. Today, they didn't make their first three-point shot until the first minute of the second half, and down 28 points. Intensity and focus led to the 'Cats improved defense ... let's hope that continues as the boys head to sunny Cancun.
Kentucky forced 20 turnovers (10 turnovers the result of UK steals), scoring 30 points off those turnovers. Simply an excellent conversion rate, and proof of the finishers UK has this year. Conversely, Rider scored only 15 points off UK's 15 turnovers.
Second-chance points, which should be a UK strong-suit, was dominated by the 'Cats, with UK scoring 24 points and Rider only 11.
UK of course dominated the points in the paint category, 56-20.

My thanks to the Broncs for coming into Rupp Arena and playing a hard, clean game. Good luck for the rest of the year.

Don't forget -- In their quest for their seventh win the gridiron 'Cats will be taking on the Georgia Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium tonight at 7:45 EST.

Thanks for reading and Go 'Cats!

UK Basketball: The Good, the Bad, and the Hilarious

Ken Howlett — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 04:41:46 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

John Calipari imploring his team to defend ... at least that's what I hope he's doing.

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Nobody ever said defense optional basketball isn't fun to watch. Well, wait, allow me to amend that statement -- UK does play pretty good post defense, allowing opponents to make only 19 of 61 two-point shots (31.3%) through their first three games. But when opponents make a combined 33 of 69 three-point attempts (47.8%), as did Miami and Sam Houston State, their abysmal two-point average is rendered a little less meaningful.

As the numbers shout to us, the perimeter "defense" ain't pretty, but isn't it good enough (for now) that these 'Cats are capable of illuminating the scoreboard at a blissful rate, especially if teams choose to run and gun. Of course, some of UK's future opponents will opt for the Morehead blueprint of slowing the game down by using up as much of the 35-second shot clock as possible. What's encouraging, though, is that these youthful 'Cats have been tested by both offensive philosophies, and have thrice come out the winner. But, as sure as Nicholas Cage will drop a cool two-million on a Cessna, UK's competition level will be increasing in the very near future. For a look at where the 'Cats need to improve, and where they are thriving, follow me after the jump.

Let's begin with the ugliness:

The Bad

UK's opponents are shooting a combined 37-88 from beyond the arc (42.0%), and averaging 73.7 points per game -- With Miami's Nick Winbush, and Sam Houston State's Corey Allmond setting new Rupp Arena opponent three-point shooting records in back-to-back games, it's quite obvious to all, that Kentucky's perimeter defense is laughable. Now, while many of the interminable three-pointers were well-guarded, the object of the game is to deny the ball to the guy doing the Tony Delk impersonation -- Sorry, Tony. It was your Rupp record of nine made threes that was also shattered Thursday night.

One of the strengths of John Calipari is his ability to teach defense. I'm confident he will now crawl into the ear of his charges and aggravatingly stay there until the perimeter defense is immensely improved.

UK has committed 62 turnovers (20.7 per game) to only 44 assists (14.7 pg), while their opponents have committed only 40 turnovers (13.3 pg) to 47 assists (15.7 pg) -- Freshmen guards, folks. John Wall and Eric Bledsoe have committed 28 turnovers between them, to go along with 24 assists. I expect the current ratio will improve with time, and with the understanding that not every pass has to be made to look more difficult than it is.

That is all.

UK is shooting 64.2% from the free throw line -- At the current (unacceptable) pace, this UK team will have the second worst free throw percentage of any Wildcat team since 1989-1990 -- Surprisingly, the '98-'99 'Cats posted a 63.9% free throw mark for that 28-9 team -- On the plus side of the equation, UK has made more free throws (52), than their opponents have taken (43).

No player for UK, though, other than Eric Bledsoe (84.6%), is making their free throws at an acceptable rate -- Wall is at 68.2% (15-22), and DeMarcus Cousins has made only eight of 15 (53.3%), even Patrick Patterson at 53.3% (8-15) is well below his career average of 75.3%.

I have to believe time is a factor in these stats. Or more pointedly, practice time. Afterall, Calipari is busy coaching his offense, and hopefully soon, his defense, and the time spent on free throw shooting is diminished. But, Cal did note during his Sam Houston State post-game show with Tom Leach, that Friday's practice would be spent on the free throw line -- Even if he didn't mean it, those were wise words to impart on the impatient masses.

Fellas, you all have the code to Craft. Use it.

DeAndre Liggins and Darnell Dodson in the doghouse -- Gentlemen, wake up and realize both of you are in a position to be a part of something special. Take a cue from Cousins, and come to the realization that it's either Cal's way, or the highway.

The Good

DeMarcus Cousins (14.7 points per game), John Wall (20.0 ppg), and Eric Bledsoe (15.0 ppg) are averaging a combined 49.7 points per game -- I didn't think they would be this good, this soon. All three players are shooting the ball very well, with Cousins making 52.9% of his shots, Wall an even 50.0%, and Bledsoe 48.3%. Wall and Bledsoe have also put to rest (for now) the concerns many fans had about their outside shooting -- Wall has made 3-6 three-point tries, and Bledsoe 6-12 (50.0%). I realize three games for Bledsoe, and two for Wall, isn't a test sample vast enough to gauge future results, but the beginning is sure encouraging. As for Cousins -- Just, wow! He's not only shooting the ball well (for the most part), but more importantly, he's been beastly on the boards, corralling 32 total rebounds (10.6 per game), 15 of those of the offensive variety. One of the by-products of Cousins' domination of the low post is that, finally, Patrick Patterson has been liberated from the shackles of the double and triple-teams he's faced over the last two seasons, which might be one small reason why Patterson is 23-29 from the floor (79.3%) this year.

All Calipari needs these three to do is to mentally mature at a rate standard for 18-19 year old athletes, and he'll eventually have something very special on his hands.

As a team UK is shooting 53.3% from the floor, and 40.4% from beyond the arc -- Darius Miller is the only 'Cat shooting less than 46.0% from the floor -- Miller is 9-20 (45.0%) on the season, but, over the last two games Miller has become more confident in his shot, resulting in him making 9-16 from the field (56.3%), and 4-8 from the three-point line (more on Miller later).

The rest of the 'Cats look like this -- The above-mentioned Patterson - 23-29 (79.3%), 3-6 from the three-point line (50.0%), Cousins - 18-34 (52.9%), Wall - 11-22 (50.0%), 3-6 from the three-point line (50.0%), and Bledsoe - 14-29 (48.3%), 6-12 from the three-point line (50.0%). Two other newcomers are also shooting the rock with aplomb -- Darnell Dodson - 9-18 (50.0%) and 5-12 from the three-pont line, and Daniel Orton - 3-6 (50.0%).

The surprisingly high three-point percentage UK is shooting surely soothes the tensions (among the fans) built up over the summer concerning UK's long-range threat possibilities. If UK's perimeter shooters are able to keep their cumulative percentage at or over the 33-35% range, the big fellas in the paint, and the penetrators should continue to have room to work.

It's all about taking good shots -- With the fast break points UK wil be scoring off the primary and secondary breaks, the team's shooting percentage should remain high, but if they regress ... well, let's not think about that.

UK's interior defense is allowing opponents to make only 39.2% of their two-point shots (while the 'Cats are making two-pointers at a 57.3% rate) -- Driving the lane against this group of killer 'Cats has thus far proved to be less than wise thinking. Compelling evidence is the fact that Patterson, Cousins, Orton (who has six blocks in 35 minutes of play), and company are averaging 9.0 blocks per game, which, as we've seen, forces teams to shoot from the perimeter. Simply and bluntly put, if the 'Cats desire to take full advantage of their exceptional post defense, it is Kentucky's perimeter defenders' responsibility to deny and pressure just as vigorously as the post players.

Interior defense was thought to be a team strength coming into the season. So far, so good.

UK has out-rebounded their opponents 128-82 on the season -- Once again, the low post performers are doing as they should -- Dominating the boards. And unlike the previous few years, the 'Cats are crashing the offensive glass with gusto, snagging 47 offensive boards in only three games (15.6 pg).

Here's a number to crunch -- Patrick Patterson, who we all know is a rebounding machine, has 31 rebounds in 100 minutes of play. DeMarcus Cousins has grabbed 32 rebounds in only 64 minutes of play. Yikes!

Will UK post such strong rebounding numbers against the likes of North Carolina, Connecticut, Louisville and the teams of the SEC? I don't know, but I know this: In order for UK to overcome some of the freshman-type mistakes they are likely to make throughout the year, offensive rebounding in particular, and rebounding in general, has to be areas possessions are gained for this UK squad.

But once again, so far, so good.

Darius Miller the last two games -- In Kentucky's first game against Morehead, Miller was 0-4 from the field (0-3 from the three-point line), with five turnovers. A collective, "What's up with Miller?" could be heard throughout the Commonwealth. But the man from Maysville has responded in UK's last two games with 9-16 shooting (56.3%), and 4-8 three-point shooting, to go along with zero turnovers.

With Miller, it's all about confidence, and not pulling his shoulders back on his shot (per coach Cal). If the young man is feeling good about himself, and if he starts the game with a basket or two, he fulfills his potential, but if not, he struggles. He needs to just r-e-l-a-x, and allow himself to get into the rhythm of the game. With all of the talent surrounding him, he shouldn't have to worry about doing too much. Do that, and he'll continue to shine.

The Hilarious

The John Calipari/Tom Leach post-game interview -- I've been listening to the Kentucky coach's post-game interview for decades, and never have I heard a coach so willing to talk. I promise the Leach family, Tom will have ample time for Christmas shopping and the like, because now all he has to do is ask one question per segment ... Cal will do the rest. In these interviews, Calipari reminds me of Ross Perot, minus the Texas twang. His stream of consciousness analysis is both highly entertaining, and I feel, genuine.

Of course, coaches tend to lecture in "coach-speak" when doing these types of interviews, but Calipari doesn't seem to have designs on misleading anybody, or hiding anything. And it doesn't hurt that Cal likes to hear himself talk nearly as much as Rick Pitino.

If you have an opportunity, catch the show. It's worth the 20 minutes.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!