Coverage from the game:
Kentucky football, with much-needed showing from short-handed defense, snaps losing streak
Coverage during the game:
LEXINGTON — Jody Wright has worked as an assistant at Alabama. And in the NFL.
But his first season as a head coach hasn’t been one for the record books. His Murray State squad is 1-9 this fall entering today’s game at Kentucky.
“I know he’s not having the year that he wants,” UK coach Mark Stoops said. “It’s his first year there. He has work to do, but he’s been in player personnel at some of the best places in the country. He’s coached with some great coaches. He knows what he’s doing.
“He’s a good football coach, and he will build that program the right way.”
While Wright continues plugging away, one thing is certain: The Wildcats should be able to name their score today against a foe that ranks near the bottom of the FCS in numerous offensive and defensive categories.
So whether Brock Vandagriff is healthy enough to start at quarterback — or Kentucky turns to backup Gavin Wimsatt or true freshman Cutter Boley — today should not be much more than a glorified scrimmage for the hosts.
We’ll see if the game plays out as expected this afternoon, when the Wildcats welcome the Racers to Kroger Field.
Anthony Brown-Stephens and Cutter Boley team up again for their second touchdown: a 14-yard reception.
Receiver Anthony Brown-Stephens scores on a 22-yard touchdown from Lexington Christian product Cutter Boley.
Give James London his second FG make in as many possessions. This one was from 36 yards away.
The visitors avoid a shutout thanks to a 32-yard field goal from James London.
Give Alex Raynor yet another field goal, as he converts a 26-yard attempt. He’s made 18 straight field goals.
UK running back Jamarion Wilcox powers his way across the goal line for a 4-yard rushing touchdown on the opening possession of the second half to extend the hosts’ lead.
Brock Vandagriff-to-Ja’Mori Maclin for a 19-yard scoring strike. It’s the final play of a 11-snap, 91-yard drive. The possession lasted 2:08.
Wildcats kicker Alex Raynor knocks in a 32-yard field goal to finish a 13-play, 78-yard possession.
UK tailback Demie Sumo-Karngbaye scores on a 3-yard run. It caps an 11-play, 73-yard scoring drive.
The Wildcats get on the board first: Brock Vandagriff hits freshman Hardley Gilmore IV for a 52-yard touchdown. UK had some good fortune on the play, too: The ball went right through the hands of Murray State corner KaVan Reed and into Gilmore’s waiting arms.
Kentucky vs. Murray State will be streamed live on SEC Network+. Richard Cross and Charles Arbuckle will call the game from the booth at Kroger Field. Streaming options for the game include ESPN+, which requires a subscription.
Kentucky 56, Murray State 0: Even so little going right for Kentucky, Murray State doesn’t have the caliber of player, offensively or defensively, to make the hosts sweat an upset in this one. The Wildcats snap a four-game losing streak in dominant fashion as they try to close the regular season with three straight wins and ensure a bowl berth is awaiting them for the ninth consecutive year.
Game lines and odds from DraftKings as of today:
Thirteen Kentucky players sat out the team’s most recent game, a 28-18 loss at Tennessee on Nov. 2.
That baker’s dozen of injured players included:
The high is 59 degrees with partly cloudy skies and no chance of rain in the forecast.
Record: 3-6
Record: 1-9
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