Missouri opens SEC play this Saturday with a road game at Kentucky and the Tigers will be preparing for a completely different look from the Wildcats on offense.

In recent years, Kentucky has relied on a physical ground game on the offensive side of the ball, but with new offensive coordinator Liam Coen running the show, the Wildcats looked completely different in their 45-10 season-opening win over Louisiana-Monroe last Saturday.

“They had 560 yards I think and 420 of them through the air,” said Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz in his weekly press conference. “I think last year they maybe had 35 total plays and maybe 35 through the air. Totally different, style, totally different feel, executed at a high level.”

Drinkwitz was asked about how important the game is for the SEC East race.

“They’re all big,” he said. “Obviously last year was a big game for us because we hadn’t beaten them in 5 years and I think getting that off our chest was good. … I don’t think anybody sees an edge after Week 2, regardless of how it plays out.”

Drinkwitz expected to see more of an aerial attack from the Wildcats, but he also admitted to being surprised by what they were able to accomplish so quickly in terms of execution.

“The only thing that’s a surprise to me is how quickly they’ve gotten to where they’re at,” Drinkwitz said. “Sometimes when you come in as a new offensive coordinator and make just a drastic change it’s kind of hard to get it in that quickly, but they’re humming on all cylinders right now. Obviously it helps when you add some great players like they’ve been able to add.”

An in terms of the production Kentucky enjoyed in Week 1, Drinkwitz said philosophy changes are only part of the equation.

“No. 1 Wan’Dale Robinson, the transfer from Nebraska is a dynamic playmaker with elite speed,” Drinkwitz added. “Their offensive line is considered by some to be the best offensive line in the country. They’re very talented across the board.”

As for opening SEC play this quickly and on the road, Drinkwitz said his guys are ready to go.

“After last year, I don’t think it matters,” he said. “Let’s get this party started.”

Drinkwitz’s full press conference ahead of Saturday’s game at Kentucky can be seen below.