Tennessee used a pair of big throws from QB Hendon Hooker to carve up the Kentucky defense, but the Wildcats responded with some trademark methodical drives.

Tennessee took a 24-21 lead at halftime thanks to a late field goal following a fourth-down stop by the Vols’ defense.

The box score was lopsided from the beginning, as the first quarter ended with the Vols with 14 points, 150 yards of total offense and 0:37 time of possession. Tennessee hit 2 touchdown passes of more than 70 yards each, and Kentucky responded with a 14-play scoring drive capped by a Kavosiey Smoke touchdown, and then another 6-play, 71-yard scoring drive.

Kentucky QB Will Levis took to the air on the tying touchdown, and leaped into the end zone. He then found Justin Rigg for another touchdown later in the first half. Hooker finished the first half with 3 touchdown passes after a pass interference call against Kentucky boosted the Vols to tie the game.

Kentucky seemed to be more energized when it picked up a Tennessee fumble, and the Cats were also effective on third down, as they started 7-for-8.

Time of possession, which was heavily in Kentucky’s favor, was noted by both fans and media in the first half.