Penn State junior running back Miles Sanders has apparently been mulling an early entry in the NFL draft, meaning that Kentucky could potentially dodge a bullet if he chooses to sit out the Citrus Bowl.

But the Wildcats aren’t so fortunate — Sanders announced he plans to play in the bowl game and is putting the decision about his future on hold.

Sanders has rushed 207 times for 1,223 yards, second-most in the Big Ten, and nine touchdowns. Penn State’s leading rusher is also a threat in the passing game with 22 catches for 132 yards.

The Nittany Lions’ most productive running back behind Sanders is true freshman Ricky Slade, who has 41 carries for 230 yards and six touchdowns in eight games this season, making Sanders’ availability even more important.

He should present a good challenge for Kentucky’s eighth-ranked scoring defense, which must also account for senior dual-threat quarterback Trace McSorley. We’ll see who wins that matchup when the No. 14 Wildcats (9-3) clash with No. 12 Penn State (9-3) on New Year’s Day in Orlando, Florida.