Cole Cubelic isn’t the only ESPN analyst high on Kentucky this season. ESPN’s Chris “The Bear” Fallica recently discussed the 2021 outlook for Mark Stoops’ troops appearing on the Fringe Element podcast with Braden Gall.

Fallica gives the Wildcats an “excellent chance” to finish second in the SEC East.

“I think Kentucky has an excellent chance to potentially finish second in the SEC East,” Fallica said on the podcast. “You alluded to the schedule. I’m not concerned about (Liam) Coen or (Will) Levis being the quarterback there. I think Levis showed in that Ohio State game a couple of years ago he’s got a ton of potential. Wan’Dale Robinson is a game-breaker.”

Georgia is the presumptive favorite to win the SEC East. Fallica thinks UK can challenge defending division champion Florida for the No. 2 spot this year.

“I think Mark Stoops has his best offense he’s had in quite some time in Lexington,” he said. “People kind of underestimate this program, like ‘Oh, there’s no way they’re going to keep having guys drafted in the first round. Offensive and defensive lines, pass-rushers, linebackers. But they’ve recruited really well, and I think of those teams, I think it’s Kentucky who could ultimately challenge Florida for that No. 2 position in the SEC East.”

The Las Vegas over/under for Kentucky’s 2021 win total is 6.5 games. Fallica thinks the over cashes with the Wildcats.

“Yes, yes I do (think they win seven games),” Fallica added. “I think 7-5 is probably the worst-case scenario for them. Earlier for them in the spring and summer when these numbers first got released, it was six and a half. Early bird gets the worm. A lot of people out there are holding Kentucky over six and a half (tickets).”

[H/T KSR]