Vols Ranked #17 Face Wildcats in Intense Lexington Border Battle

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Vols Ranked #17 Face Wildcats in Intense Lexington Border Battle

In a highly anticipated matchup, No. 17 Tennessee Volunteers face the Kentucky Wildcats in Lexington. The game is scheduled for Saturday at 7:45 p.m. This exciting border battle arrives on the heels of losses for both teams, magnifying the importance of this encounter.

BROADCAST DETAILS

Fans can tune into the game via the SEC Network. The commentary team includes Tom Hart, Jordan Rodgers, and Cole Cubelic. Additionally, Tennessee’s official radio broadcast will be available on the Vol Network, reaching 70 stations across Tennessee and the southeast.

Radio Broadcast Information

  • Local Stations: WIVK-FM 107.7, WNML-FM 99.1
  • SiriusXM Channels: 161, 191 (also available on the SiriusXM app, Channel 961)

A live stream is accessible through UTSports.com and the Tennessee Athletics App. Fans attending the game can also listen via the Vol Network’s Stadiumcast on 101.3 FM.

Tennessee’s Recent Performance

Coach Josh Heupel’s Volunteers seek to extend their winning streak against Kentucky, aiming for their fourth consecutive victory at Kroger Field. Heupel holds a strong record against the Wildcats, winning all four matchups since taking over as head coach. Tennessee boasts an impressive 17-3 record after a loss, demonstrating resilience in challenging circumstances.

Player Highlights

Redshirt-sophomore running back DeSean Bishop is on a roll, rushing for over 100 yards in two consecutive games. He achieved 123 yards with two touchdowns against Alabama, following a career-high 146-yard performance against Arkansas. Bishop currently leads the Power Four with an impressive 7.8 yards per carry.

Defensive Strength

Tennessee’s defense has been formidable, leading the Power Four with four defensive touchdowns this season. This tally includes three fumble return touchdowns and one interception return. The Volunteers have maintained an unbeaten record (10-0) when scoring defensively under coordinator Tim Banks.

Close Games Record

Tennessee’s ability to thrive in tight contests is notable. The team holds a 9-2 record in one-score games since the start of the 2022 season, showcasing a winning percentage of .818. This ranks first in the SEC and third nationwide.

Series History

The rivalry between Tennessee and Kentucky is historic, with the Volunteers leading the overall series 85-26-9. This matchup marks their 82nd consecutive meeting since 1944. Tennessee has been particularly dominant at Kroger Field, winning 19 of its last 21 games against Kentucky.

Insights on Kentucky

Heading into this game, the Wildcats are led by head coach Mark Stoops, now in his 13th season. After a strong start, Kentucky has suffered three consecutive losses. Freshman quarterback Cutter Boley has been at the helm, amassing 885 yards and four touchdowns this season.

  • Top receiver: Kendrick Law with 22 receptions for 199 yards and a touchdown.
  • Leading rusher: Seth McGowan with 476 yards and seven touchdowns.

On defense, senior linebacker Alex Afari Jr. is a key player, leading the team with 39 tackles. Junior safety Ty Brant also has two interceptions, contributing to a potent defensive lineup.

This critical contest promises to deliver an intense football experience as both teams vie for redemption and supremacy in this storied rivalry.