The Kentucky Wildcats enjoyed their first bye of the 2014 season last week, and returned to work Monday to begin preparing for Saturday’s showdown with the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Head coach Mark Stoops addressed the media to discuss the bye week and the upcoming game against Vandy, and released this week’s updated depth chart in advance of the game. However, there was nothing actually updated on the depth chart, as the two-deep remained the same as it was for the Florida game two weeks ago.

One point of interest on the depth chart was freshman quarterback Drew Barker, who was once again listed as one of UK’s backup quarterbacks (along with Reese Phillips), indicating he has still not been redshirted by the Cats’ coaching staff.

It was also interesting that left guard Zach West was listed with the second-team while recovering from a neck injury that sidelined him against Florida. Stoops said in his press conference West made a lot of progress in getting healthy during the bye week, adding he thinks West “will have a chance to play” in Saturday’s game. Cole Mosier is currently listed as the starter at left guard.

Wideouts Alex Montgomery and Jeff Badet were once again left off the depth chart as they, too, continue to battle various injuries. Neither player has made an appearance for UK so far this season. Badet has battled eye and leg injuries since the offseasn, and Stoops said he may be available for Saturday’s game, although he made no guarantees.

Montgomery is also working his way back from a leg injury, and Stoops seemed very optimistic in discussing his status with the media.

“He’s not far off,” Stoops said. “He needs a little bit more strength in his leg. The injury itself is healed up and ready to go. We’re working on some strength in his quad. So he’s very close. He wants to go.”

Montgomery would be joining a crowded group of talented receivers in the Wildcats’ offense, led by senior Javess Blue, sophomore Ryan Timmons and four stud freshmen, but his big frame and explosive abilities could make him an asset in the second half of the season.

The Cats have a chance to earn their first SEC victory since 2011 in Saturday’s showdown with Vandy, but the Commodores put forth their best effort of the season in a loss to South Carolina last weekend, proving this game will be no cupcake for UK.

Stoops has no intention of looking past the ‘Dores, as he explained on Monday. The Wildcats haven’t beaten Vanderbilt since the 2011 season, and haven’t beaten Vandy at home since 2010.

“Vandy is playing better and better each week. We’ll have our hands full,” Stoops said. “(We’re) excited to get back at it.”