Kentucky snapped a 3-game losing streak with a 34-17 win at Vanderbilt on Saturday night.

The Wildcats are now 7-3 on the season, and with winnable games left on the schedule against New Mexico State and Louisville, they could be in line to win more than 8 games for just the 2nd time in head coach Mark Stoops’ tenure.

One reason for Kentucky’s improvement this season has been a more dynamic offense, especially when it comes to a more explosive passing game.

Adding a more dangerous aerial attack was among the reasons that Stoops hired Liam Coen as offensive coordinator after last season, and Stoops said Monday that he has been pleased with his 1st-year OC.

“I think he’s handled it exceptionally well…it’s extremely hard to be a play-caller on either side,” said Stoops during his weekly press conference.

Stoops also said a key to the offensive success in 2021 has been the play of senior tackle Darian Kinnard, who picked up an SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week award Monday.

“People don’t talk about him enough, because he’s a dominant player,” said Stoops of the 6-5, 345-pounder.

Kentucky’s game with New Mexico State on Saturday is set for noon EST and will be televised by the SEC Network.