It has been a challenging season for the Kentucky Wildcats. In Week 9, Mark Stoops and his team struggled against the Tennessee Volunteers, suffering a 56-34 defeat. Meanwhile, Auburn secured its first SEC victory of the season with a 33-24 win over Arkansas and now returns home to The Plains with renewed momentum as November begins.
According to ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI), Auburn is favored to win this matchup with a probability of 77.1%, compared to Kentucky’s 22.9%. The Wildcats remain winless in SEC play at 0-5. Despite moments that suggested they might turn their season around, Kentucky has consistently failed to capitalize on opportunities. A significant issue has been their offensive line, which has struggled to protect the quarterback effectively. Additionally, their pass rush has lacked consistency.
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However, there may be an opportunity for Kentucky to disrupt an Auburn offense that is only averaging 17.4 points per game against SEC opponents. While Auburn lacks explosive offensive firepower, the Tigers have managed a unique quarterback situation by alternating between Jackson Arnold and Ashton Daniels, who performed well against Arkansas. One advantage for Auburn is its ability to avoid turnovers and minimize penalties.
Although Auburn’s season has not been stellar thus far, they enter this game with more options and weapons at its disposal. AU’s defense can meet the challenge against a struggling Kentucky attack that seeks to find its rhythm, particularly following some promising performances from young quarterback Cutter Boley.
This matchup represents a critical moment for both coaches as they look to call off the dogs, at least for one more week, with the mounting pressure following a tough stretch of performance this season. While Kentucky will put forth a competitive effort and generate some scoring drives, overcoming Auburn’s strong pass rush will prove difficult. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
Lee Ann joins the Saturday Down South team, bringing over fifteen years of experience covering the SEC as both a sports journalist and football scout. With her keen eye for talent, she has also flexes her skills as the Director of Recruiting for the Rebel Walk( Ole Miss) Herring, is a staff writer at USA Today Sports Wildcats Wire, where she dives into the thrilling world of Kentucky football and basketball. When fall rolls around, you can catch her on air as an analyst for the Wake up 502 College Football Show on Big X Sports Radio 96.1 FM—because who doesn't love a good game day chat? A proud Brown University alum, Lee Ann balances her time between the sidelines and press box with her passion for coaching her boys' youth lacrosse and savoring a fine glass of bourbon alongside a good cigar. So, whether she's dissecting plays or rallying the next generation of athletes, Lee Ann is your spirited insider ready to tackle all things SEC!
