Ad Disclosure
Here are some quick thoughts on Kentucky’s 34-27 overtime win against Eastern Kentucky at Commonwealth Stadium on Saturday:
What it means: Whew. That was a close one of the Wildcats faithful, but at the end of a day a win is a win. The Wildcats are poised to enjoy postseason play this season. With a 4-1 record and a winnable home game against Charlotte left on the schedule, Kentucky is likely just one win against a SEC opponent or Louisville from securing a trip to a bowl.
What I liked:
- The resolve Kentucky showed during the fourth quarter was pretty impressive. The Wildcats were behind 27-13 with less than 10 minutes remaining, but they pushed the game into overtime with two late fourth-quarter touchdown drives, including the game-tying score on a fourth-quarter pass in the final minute of the game.
- After struggling throwing a couple of interceptions early in the game, Kentucky QB Patrick Towles showed some poise. He completed 17 of 21 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns in the second half.
- Former Kentucky RB Dy’Shawn Mobley gave his best effort against his former team, rushing for 74 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries, and 50 yards receiving on five catches. Though he did have a critical mistake in overtime, running backwards for a large loss.
What I didn’t like:
- Does this have to be said? Letting a FCS team manhandle you for the majority of the evening is not a good look for a SEC school. The Wildcats did not look sharp early.
- Patrick Towles threw two first-half interceptions, which was a disappointing start after such a good game against Missouri in Week 4.
- Missing extra points is just not acceptable. When the Wildcats had a chance to take the lead following a third-down touchdown, the extra point was pushed to the right, which left the game tied 13-13.
- Kentucky’s rushing effort was putrid with out Stanley “Boom” Williams, who did not play because of a coach’s decision. The Wildcats rushed for just 55 yards on 36 attempts.
Key play: Kentucky QB Patrick Towles found Dorian Baker in the end zone for a 5-yard touchdown on a fourth down attempt to tie the game at 27-27 in the final minute of regulation, which ultimately forced overtime.
What’s next: The Wildcats have a bye in Week 6. Kentucky will next host Auburn at Commonwealth Stadium on Thursday, Oct. 15.
Nick Cole is a former print journalist with several years of experience covering the SEC. Born and raised in SEC country, he has taken in the game-day experience at all 14 stadiums.
