Mark Stoops previews matchup against Louisville: ‘Rivalry week is here’

Mark Stoops sat down for his Monday press conference, and there was one addition to the table in front of him this week — the Governor’s Cup trophy.

“Rivalry week is here,” the Kentucky coach told the media.

Indeed it is, as the Wildcats are set to close their regular season with a home matchup against in-state rival Louisville. Kentucky already secured bowl eligibility with its win over UT Martin this past weekend, and now it has one last chance to prove itself before finding out which bowl it could play in.

Stoops knows that this week’s game is important for more than just that reason, though.

“There’s no doubting when it’s a rivalry game it’s important,” Stoops said. “I understand how important it is to our fan base. … Our players have really bought in and put in the work necessary and will need to again this week.”

Live Now: @UKCoachStoops Pre-Louisville Press Conference https://t.co/xa2lTFvHi8

— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) November 25, 2019

Heading into the matchup against Louisville, Stoops knows what to expect, as he stated multiple times of the Cardinals: “Much like us, they are committed to running the football.”

Kentucky notched a 56-10 win at Louisville last season, and the Wildcats have won two of the last three meetings between the two schools. They also lead the all-time series, 16-15.

This year’s game could be difficult for Kentucky, though, as Louisville is 7-4 and has won three of its last four games.

The Wildcats and Cardinals will kick off on Saturday at noon ET on SEC Network.

Jake Rill

Jake Rill contributes to news coverage for Saturday Down South. He has covered the SEC since 2016.