Photo by Vicki Graff
The Kentucky Wildcats opened their season with sound wins over the Central Michigan Chippewas and the Florida Gators, setting the spread high for their week three matchup against the Murray State Racers.
Favored by more than 40 points, UK cruised to their second consecutive 3-0 start under head coach Mark Stoops with a 48-10 beatdown of MSU.
Quarterback Terry Wilson didn’t throw a touchdown pass but put together an efficient afternoon of football, not making a single mistake. Running back Benny Snell also dominated in limited snaps, getting his work in while also receiving a well-earned rest.
Stoops’ troops took a 17-3 lead into halftime, thanks to a 42-yard touchdown run by Wilson, a touchdown run by Snell and a Miles Butler field goal.
As the defense started the second half with three consecutive three & outs, Kentucky received favorable field position to expand their lead to 34-3 after three quarters. AJ Rose punched in a score and Snell technically threw his first touchdown pass to Zy’Aire Hughes for a score.
Butler added another field goal, just before backup quarterback Gunnar Hoak replaced Wilson in the fourth quarter.
It was Hoak’s first appearance since week one and he picked up right where he left off, this time taking the Wildcats down the field in just four plays for 80 yards and a touchdown to Allen Daily.
Leading 41-3, the Cats kept pounding the rock with true freshman Christopher Rodriguez receiving carries.
Runs of 27 & 16 yards by the young talent set up Kentucky’s ninth scoring drive as third-string QB Danny Clark ran in a touchdown on the goal line. The Racers did eventually find the end zone, scoring with 30 seconds left in the game.
For what was considered a sluggish start, the Wildcats responded exceptionally well by winning the second half 31-7.
The win will propel Kentucky into next week’s matchup with the Bulldogs, which is set for 7 PM EDT at Kroger Field.
