Can the Wildcats win a record sixth straight over Louisville?
As we enter the 2024 Governor’s Cup, there’s no denying that it’s been a disappointing season for the Kentucky Wildcats and Louisville Cardinals.
However, despite neither meeting expectations, the game still holds a lot of importance for both programs.
Last season, Louisville coach Jeff Brohm called it “the most important game of the season” over the ACC championship game they were set to play in.
Of course, the series returns to Lexington, and Kentucky is looking for a series-record sixth-straight win on Saturday.
In terms of which team has more at stake, it’s Kentucky. A fanbase filled with frustration will not forgive a 4-7 record with this roster, but a win over Louisville would certainly help with offseason pessimism. Then there is the uncertainty around Mark Stoops’ future. While it’s clear Kentucky cannot afford his $40+ million buyout, does he want to return? Publicly, he’s made it clear he’s planning to return, but will that hold true once the season is over and there are no more games to be played?
However, Louisville is playing far better football. A few weeks ago, they locked a bowl appearance with an impressive win at Clemson and just beat a competitive Pittsburgh team 37-9 last week.
Time to take a look at the matchup.
Prolific Offense vs. a Strong Defense
Louisville is a top-15 offense in total yards per game (453.0 YPG), whereas Kentucky is 115th (330.6 YPG). Quite the difference.
Furthermore, the Cardinals have scored more than 20 points in every game this season, while Kentucky has failed to do so against one power opponent. Louisville clearly has the stronger offense.
On the other hand, even with its shortcomings, Kentucky is 37th nationally in total defense. Louisville’s record this season against top-40 defense is 0-3.
Ole Miss might be the most comprable team to Louisville that Kentucky has faced. The Cats went into Oxford and held the Rebels to just 17 points, so we know they’re capable of slowing down a high-ranking offense.
Will the Cardinal’s offense remain prolific against an SEC defense?
Cutter Boley Becoming Kentucky Hero?
A Kentucky kid making his first start at quarterback for Kentucky, the program he rooted for growing up, as they take on in-state rival Louisville. That is the dream of many young athletes in Kentucky, but that is the reality for Cutter Boley on Saturday.
After passing for 160 yards against Texas in the second half last week on the road, Boley earned the nod to start against the Cardinals. Can Boley lead the Wildcats to a win and give the season a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing year?
The former Lexington Christian Academy product will be the first freshman to make his first career start vs. Louisville since Kentucky legend Jared Lorenzen.
What’s Next?
Most Kentucky fans didn’t expect a playoff appearance, but with this roster, an 8-to-9-win season was expected. That is a far cry from the Cats’ current 4-7 record. It’s not just the record; It’s the on-field product, highlighted by a lack of discipline and poor offensive performances.
There’s been much unrest within the Big Blue Nation, but without $40+ million, the decision to return is on Mark Stoops. Recently, he sounded like he is committed to next season. With a lot of young talent like Cutter Boley and potentially Jamarion Wilcox (if Kentucky can manage to keep him out of the transfer portal after waiting too long to use him), there is some reason for optimism.
Will Saturday’s performance help that or will plaguing issues rear their head again?
Here’s how to watch and follow Cats vs. Cards in the Governor’s Cup.
Kentucky Wildcats (4-7) vs. Louisville Cardinals (7-4)
Game Time: 12 PM ET on November 30th
Location: Kroger Field in Lexington, KY
TV Channel: SEC Network
Announcers: Dave Neal, Aaron Murray, Ashley ShahAhmadi
Online Stream: ESPN+ and the ESPN app
Radio: Tom Leach and Jeff Piecoro have the UK radio call on the UK Sports Network.
Satellite Radio: XM Channel 203, Sirius Channel 98, Internet Channel 966
Replay: ESPN+ and SEC Network (check local listings).
Odds: FanDuel Sportsbook has Kentucky as a 3.5-point underdog with an over/under of 48.5 points. ESPN has the Wildcats as underdogs for the straight season, giving them a 29.9% chance of victory.
Predictions: OddsShark has the Cats losing 27-23, while DRatings has them falling 26-22. Dimers has Louisville winning a thriller, 27-25. Odds Trader has the Cards winning 27-23.
I expect this to be a close game, but given the vibes around the program and the disappointing results thus far, I think this is the year that Louisville breaks the streak and beats Kentucky 24-17.
Hit us with your Kentucky vs. Louisville score predictions! And Go CATS!!