Mark Stoops emphasizes need to look at 'lack of discipline' following loss to Mizzou

Mark Stoops’ Kentucky squad jumped out to an early 14-0 lead over a strong Missouri team Saturday evening in Lexington.

But a good first quarter developed into a bad 2nd quarter and a dreadful 2nd half. The Tigers finished on a 38-7 run to take home the 38-21 win over No. 24.

Following the game, Stoops noted that he was disappointed with the team’s discipline and that the team needs to take a long, hard look at itself during the open date:

Mark Stoops after loss to Missouri: Need to take a long look at ourselves during the open date, especially the undisciplined issues. The lack of discipline is really something that’s standing out and bothering me. We’ve had more discipline than this in the past. It’s concerning.

— Jeff Drummond (@JDrumUK) October 15, 2023

Kentucky’s downfall began following the Tigers’ successful fake punt about midway through the first half. The Tigers cut the Kentucky lead in half and never looked back.

Here’s what Stoops had to say about that key play:

Stoops: The fake punt definitely feels like one of those plays that punches you in the gut. We definitely didn’t respond well after that.

— Jeff Drummond (@JDrumUK) October 15, 2023

Stoops also told media that there will be frustration, but he’s not pointing fingers at any particular area of the Wildcats team:

Stoops: “There’s frustration, but there won’t be finger-pointing.”

— Nick Roush (@RoushKSR) October 15, 2023