Rise of the Bluegrass Empire: A Kentucky Wildcats Dynasty

[jasontoddwhitt]

Around the Nation - Week 13 Edition

Wolverines Prevail: #23 Michigan Hands #9 Illinois a 27-17 Defeat in Big Ten Showdown

In a pivotal Big Ten matchup, the #23 Michigan Wolverines secured a hard-fought 27-17 victory over the #9 Illinois Fighting Illini. Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy had a steady performance, completing 14 of 29 passes for 211 yards. Running back Donovan Edwards was the offensive standout, carrying the ball 25 times for 130 yards and punching in a crucial touchdown. On the other side, Illinois' Tommy DeVito threw for 133 yards and a touchdown, but it wasn't enough to overcome Michigan's resilient defense, which held Illinois to 271 yards of total offense. This win helps solidify Michigan's position in the conference, and a victory over Ohio State next week would send them to the Big Ten Championship.

Oklahoma State Stuns #7 Oklahoma in Thrilling Bedlam Showdown

In a thrilling Big 12 clash, the Oklahoma State Cowboys pulled off a late-game stunner, toppling the #7 Oklahoma Sooners 31-28 on the road. The contest was a seesaw battle, with Oklahoma holding a 28-23 lead deep into the fourth quarter. However, with just 1:44 left on the clock, Oklahoma State's RB Dominic Richardson powered through from five yards out, putting the Cowboys ahead. Oklahoma's three lost fumbles proved their undoing, and the Cowboys emerged victorious. Oklahoma's QB Dillon Gabriel had a strong performance with 264 yards and three touchdowns, but it was Oklahoma State that claimed the Bedlam Series victory.

Nebraska Upsets #2 Wisconsin in Thrilling 20-17 Victory, Secures Spot in Big Ten Championship

In a thrilling Big Ten showdown, #15 Nebraska upset #2 Wisconsin with a nail-biting 20-17 victory. The fourth quarter witnessed a back-and-forth battle featuring three lead changes. With just 2:29 remaining in the game, Nebraska's quarterback Casey Thompson connected on a clutch 3-yard touchdown pass to Trey Palmer, securing the Cornhuskers' 20-17 lead. Despite outgaining Nebraska and benefiting from a +1 turnover advantage, Wisconsin's two red zone interceptions ultimately proved costly. The win propelled Nebraska into the Big Ten Championship, marking a memorable victory for the Cornhuskers. Critical contributors for Nebraska included tight end Travis Vokolek, who hauled in a touchdown pass, and outside linebacker Luke Reimer, with a standout defensive performance. Wisconsin's efforts were led by quarterback Graham Mertz and running back Isaac Guerendo, though it wasn't enough to overcome the determined Cornhuskers.

Notre Dame Secures Bowl Eligibility with 31-24 Victory Over Boston College

In a game that solidified their bowl eligibility, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish held off a late charge by the Boston College Eagles to secure a 31-24 win. Notre Dame quarterback Drew Pyne had an impressive outing, throwing for 302 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Audric Estime added 118 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Fighting Irish appeared to have the game comfortably in hand with a 31-17 lead, but a late interception by Boston College's Jalen Cheek, who returned it 95 yards for a touchdown, made it a one-score game. Notre Dame managed to run out the clock to seal the win.

Penn State Holds Off Late Surge to Defeat Rutgers, 38-31

In a thrilling Big Ten matchup, the Penn State Nittany Lions secured a 38-31 victory on the road against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Penn State appeared to be cruising with a 35-14 lead entering the fourth quarter, but Rutgers mounted a furious comeback attempt. Scarlet Knights quarterback Evan Simon threw for 181 yards and three touchdowns, while receiver Sean Ryan had a standout performance with eight catches for 125 yards and three touchdowns. For Penn State, quarterback Sean Clifford had a stellar game, passing for 347 yards and three touchdowns. The Nittany Lions also received significant contributions from running back Kaytron Allen, who rushed for 104 yards and a touchdown, and wide receiver Parker Washington, who hauled in 12 catches for 191 yards and two touchdowns. Penn State managed to withstand the late surge by Rutgers to secure the win.

Stanford Secures Bowl Eligibility with Dominant 52-24 Victory Over Cal

Stanford made a resounding statement as they defeated their Bay Area rivals, the Cal Golden Bears, with a commanding 52-24 victory. The win secured Stanford's bowl eligibility, and it was an impressive showing by the Cardinal. Quarterback Tanner McKee had a standout performance, passing for 384 yards and four touchdowns, while running back Mitch Leigber contributed 62 rushing yards and a touchdown on 11 carries. Wide receiver Michael Wilson played a pivotal role, amassing 115 receiving yards and a touchdown on five catches. In contrast, Cal quarterback Jack Plummer threw for 339 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, and wide receiver Jeremiah Hunter led the team with 95 receiving yards. Stanford's well-rounded performance earned them a spot in the postseason, capping off a successful season in the Pac-12.



New Year's Six Projections


* There's no way the SEC gets four teams into the NY6, but it's a nice thought.

[jasontoddwhitt]

Governor's Cup: Kentucky Eyes Fourth Consecutive Victory Over Louisville


Levis ran all over the Cardinals last year, rushing for 113 yards and four TDs.

The stage is set for a colossal showdown as the #18 Kentucky Wildcats prepare to host the #7 Louisville Cardinals in the much-anticipated Battle for the Governor's Cup. With both teams coming off impressive seasons, this year's game is expected to be one for the ages, with Kentucky looking to defend its home turf against their in-state rivals.

Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops expressed his excitement for the matchup, saying, "The Governor's Cup is always a special game for our program and our fans. Louisville is a talented team, and we're ready for the challenge. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our abilities and end the regular season on a high note. We're also motivated by our recent success against Louisville, winning the last three games and four of the last five. It's an exciting rivalry, and we hope to continue our recent success."

On the opposing side, Louisville's head coach Scott Satterfield shared his thoughts on the rivalry clash: "The Governor's Cup is more than just a game; it's a celebration of football in the state of Kentucky. We greatly respect the Wildcats and their accomplishments this season, but we're coming to Lexington with one goal – to bring the Governor's Cup back to Louisville. Our players are fired up and ready to put on a show."

With both coaches and teams fired up for the rivalry match, fans from across Kentucky eagerly await the Battle for the Governor's Cup, which promises to be a thrilling and unforgettable contest in college football. Kentucky also holds the all-time series lead at 18-15, adding an extra layer of intensity to this fierce rivalry.

Wildcats Secure Commitments from Miller and Schoonmaker

The Kentucky Wildcats have reason to celebrate as they recently received commitments from two promising recruits for their 2023 football class. The Cats have added depth to their offensive line with the commitments of 3-star center Mark Miller and 3-star guard Darren Schoonmaker.

Mark Miller, hailing from North Haven, Connecticut, is a robust run-blocking center who ranks as the #23 center in the 2023 recruiting class. He brings with him a wealth of talent and is set to fortify Kentucky's offensive line. Miller had offers from other programs, including Cincinnati and North Carolina State, but ultimately chose to wear blue and white.

Darren Schoonmaker, from Westlake, Ohio, is another run-blocking specialist set to join the Wildcats. Schoonmaker is ranked as the #37 guard in the 2023 recruiting class and is poised to be a vital asset to Kentucky's offensive line. He turned down an offer from Michigan State to play for the Wildcats.

The commitments of Miller and Schoonmaker are part of an ongoing recruiting effort for the Wildcats. The 2023 recruiting class now boasts 14 commitments, adding to the talent pool that head coach Mark Stoops is assembling. Currently, the class is ranked 34th by the 24/7 recruiting service, a testament to the promising future of the program.

While the Cats celebrated these two commitments, they did face a minor setback in their pursuit of 4-star tackle Chris Hicks from Palmer, Alaska. Hicks, who is ranked as the #13 tackle in the 2023 recruiting class, opted to commit to Iowa State over Kentucky. Despite this miss, the Wildcats are undoubtedly pleased with the additions of Miller and Schoonmaker, who will play crucial roles in the program's future success.

[jasontoddwhitt]

[jasontoddwhitt]

Will Levis owns the Louisville Cardinals.

Kentucky Continues Governor's Cup Streak with Convincing Win Over Louisville

LEXINGTON, KY - In a gridiron spectacle highlighting the strength of the #18 Kentucky Wildcats, the team secured their fourth consecutive Governor's Cup triumph over the #7 Louisville Cardinals, emerging with a convincing 34-3 victory. This win solidifies the Wildcats' recent dominance in the heated rivalry and marks their fifth win in the last six matchups.

Much like last year, quarterback Will Levis orchestrated an impressive offensive performance. Last year, he did it with his legs, rushing for four touchdowns. He did it with his arm this year, throwing for three touchdowns. Star wide receiver Tayvion Robinson emerged as the primary target, finding the end zone three times and contributing significantly to the Wildcats' offensive success.


[L] A pick play frees up Tayvion Robinson in the back of the end zone for his first TD. [R] Robinson beats press coverage, and Will Levis finds him for his second TD of the game.

While the passing game took center stage, Kentucky's defense, led by standout linebacker Jacquez Jones, delivered a stellar performance. The Wildcats stifled the Cardinals, limiting them to a lone field goal and forcing a crucial turnover that swung the momentum firmly in Kentucky's favor.


Had Carrington Valentine not lost his balance, he might've returned this interception for six.

The game, however, presented challenges for the Wildcats. Star running back Chris Rodriguez Jr., a key player in Kentucky's ground game, suffered an elbow injury early in the fourth quarter. He returned to the sideline wearing an elbow brace. Despite his absence, the Wildcats showcased their depth, seamlessly transitioning to other offensive options to maintain game control.

Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, emphasizing the significance of this win for the program. "This win means a lot to our program. It's not just about this year; it's about building a legacy. Four straight against a tough Louisville team is something special," said Stoops.

Louisville head coach Scott Satterfield acknowledged the challenge posed by the Wildcats, stating, "Credit to Kentucky; they played a great game. We struggled to find our rhythm, and their defense capitalized on our mistakes. We'll regroup and come back stronger."

With this resounding victory, the Wildcats conclude their regular season on a high note, carrying considerable momentum into the postseason. As bowl game matchups loom, Kentucky aims to build on this success and make a lasting impact on the national stage.

Louisville Cardinals at Kentucky Wildcats
Nov 26, 2022	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#7 Louisville Cardinals (9-3)	0	0	3	0	3
#18 Kentucky Wildcats (9-3)	7	14	10	3	34

Team Stats Comparison
	LOU	UK
Total Offense	201	471
Rushing Yards	102	120
Passing Yards	99	351
First Downs	13	25
Punt Return Yards	0	44
Kick Return Yards	164	69
Total Yards	365	584
Turnovers	1	0
3rd Down Conversion	2-10 (20%)	6-9 (66%)
4th Down Conversion	0-1 (0%)	0-1 (0%)
2-Point Conversion	0-0	0-0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	1-0-0 (0%)	5-2-2 (80%)
Penalties	3-25	5-25
Possession Time	13:25	18:35

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		LOU	UK
2:50	(UK) TD: T. Robinson, 1 Yd pass from W. Levis (M. Ruffolo kick)	0	7
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		LOU	UK
3:19	(UK) TD: J. McClain, 7 Yd run (M. Ruffolo kick)	0	14
0:48	(UK) TD: T. Robinson, 39 Yd pass from W. Levis (M. Ruffolo kick)	0	21
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		LOU	UK
5:55	(UK) FG: M. Ruffolo, 38 Yd FG	0	24
2:07	(LOU) FG: J. Turner, 56 Yd FG	3	24
1:18	(UK) TD: T. Robinson, 30 Yd pass from W. Levis (M. Ruffolo kick)	3	31
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		LOU	UK
4:22	(UK) FG: M. Ruffolo, 24 Yd FG	3	34

Louisville Cardinals PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Malik Cunningham 8/19 99 0 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Tiyon Evans 19 71 3.7 0 Malik Cunningham 8 30 3.7 0 Trevion Cooley 3 4 1.3 0 Jawhar Jordan 1 -3 -3.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Tyler Hudson 3 40 13.3 0 Braden Smith 2 18 9.0 0 Ahmari Huggins-Bruce 1 20 20.0 0 Marshon Ford 1 6 6.0 0 Tiyon Evans 1 15 15.0 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Bryan Hudson 0 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Monty Montgomery 7 0 0 0 Benjamin Perry 7 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Kenderick Duncan 5 0 0 0 Chandler Jones 5 0 0 0 Ashton Gillotte 4 0 0 0 Josh Minkins 4 0 0 (1pd) 0 Yaya Diaby 4 0 0 0 Momo Sanogo 4 0 0 0 Kei'trel Clark 4 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Quincy Riley 3 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Yasir Abdullah 3 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Jarvis Brownlee 2 0 0 0 Marvin Dallas 2 0 0 0 D'Angelo Hutchinson 1 0 0 0 Kameron Wilson 1 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG James Turner 1/1 0/0 3 56 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Mark Vassett 5 214 42.8 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Jawhar Jordan 4 95 23.7 0 Jarvis Brownlee 2 47 23.5 0 Jalen Mitchell 1 22 22.0 0

Kentucky Wildcats PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Will Levis 32/37 351 3 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Chris Rodriguez Jr. 18 79 4.3 0 Jutahn McClain 6 25 4.1 1 Tayvion Robinson 1 8 8.0 0 Will Levis 1 8 8.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Jordan Dingle 9 76 8.4 0 Chauncy Magwood 7 106 15.1 0 Tayvion Robinson 7 97 13.8 3 Dane Key 6 60 10.0 0 Brenden Bates 2 8 4.0 0 Chris Rodriguez Jr. 1 4 4.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Jacquez Jones 9 (1tfl) 0 0 (1pd) 0 Deandre Square 8 (3tfl) 0 0 0 J.J. Weaver 7 (2tfl) 0 0 0 Tyrell Ajian 5 0 0 0 Jordan Lovett 4 0 0 (2pd) 0 Jordan Wright 4 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Kobi Albert 2 0 0 0 Keidron Smith 2 0 0 0 Justin Rogers 2 (1tfl) 1 0 0 Alex Afari 2 0 0 0 Demarcus Harris 1 0 0 0 Maxwell Hairston 1 0 0 0 Carrington Valentine 1 0 1 (1pd) 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Matt Ruffolo 2/3 4/4 10 38 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Jutahn McClain 1 40 40.0 0 Kavosiey Smoke 1 29 29.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Tayvion Robinson 4 44 11.0 0

Jutahn McClain has a nose for the end zone; his third rushing TD in the last three games.

[studbucket]

So how did Louisville get to #7 yet lose to you so handily? They were just terrible today? Easy schedule and some luck? Just a once-in-a-season great performance from your defense? Just a terrible matchup for them?

[jasontoddwhitt]

Quote: Originally Posted by studbucket

So how did Louisville get to #7 yet lose to you so handily? They were just terrible today? Easy schedule and some luck? Just a once-in-a-season great performance from your defense? Just a terrible matchup for them?

Louisville had been riding a five-game winning streak coming into this game, which included wins over James Madison and Clemson. They have a Quad 1 victory (Clemson) and three Quad 2 victories (James Madison, Pittsburgh, Syracuse). Their only bad loss is a loss to Virginia.

Their first drive went okay; they got a couple of first downs before stalling out at midfield. But when Malik Cunningham threw that interception on the second drive, it just snowballed from there. It was three and out after three and out. Before their final drive, Cunningham was 3/14 before going 5/5 on their final drive, which they also failed to score on.

Their secondary didn't concern me. Clark did a decent job keeping Dane Key bottled up, but Robinson and Magwood both feasted. Zero pass rush meant Levis was 20/22 at halftime.

The 31-point margin of victory matched the actual scoring margin from last year's game, and as far as this dynasty is concerned, our second-largest victory of the season. I was shocked at how easy it came.

But you know what we say in Lexington...."L's Down Baby"

[jasontoddwhitt]

Rivalry Week Edition

Michigan Stuns Ohio State in Pivotal Showdown, Secures Big Ten Title Berth with Convincing Victory

In a seismic clash that shook the college football landscape, #13 Michigan delivered a stunning 45-21 upset on the road against #6 Ohio State, securing a monumental win in the storied rivalry. The Wolverines, led by a committed performance from quarterback J.J. McCarthy, showcased their dominance with a balanced offensive display. McCarthy's precision passing, combined with the dynamic rushing efforts of HB Blake Corum, propelled Michigan's relentless attack. Despite an impressive showing by Ohio State's QB Kyle McCord and standout receiver Emeka Egbuka, the Wolverines' resolute defense held firm, sealing their emphatic victory and cementing their place in the Big Ten title game.

Baylor Stuns #10 Texas on the Road with Gritty Defensive Showcase and Resilient Performance

Baylor's resolute performance against #10 Texas showcased their ability to overcome turnovers, securing a stunning 24-17 victory on the road. Despite committing five turnovers, the Bears relied on their steadfast defense, shutting out Texas in the second half and forcing four turnovers. Texas, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, struggled offensively, with Ewers throwing three interceptions. However, the Longhorns' running back, Bijan Robinson, managed an impressive 150 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries. For Baylor, quarterback Blake Shapen orchestrated a resilient offensive effort, passing for 365 yards and a touchdown, while Qualan Jones pounded out 154 yards on 32 carries, finding the end zone twice. Tight end Ben Sims was a crucial target, hauling in 10 receptions for 139 yards, contributing significantly to Baylor's hard-fought victory.

Coastal Carolina Completes Perfect Regular Season with Gritty Victory over James Madison, 44-38

In a thrilling showdown, #9 Coastal Carolina sealed their flawless regular season with a hard-fought 44-38 victory over James Madison on the road. The game unfolded as a tense battle, with James Madison holding a slim 21-20 lead at halftime. However, Coastal Carolina rallied emphatically in the third quarter, seizing the lead and maintaining it until the final whistle. Quarterback Grayson McCall exhibited his prowess, amassing 359 passing yards and four touchdowns, guiding his team to victory. Running back C.J. Beasley contributed significantly with a touchdown and 76 rushing yards on 16 carries. Meanwhile, James Madison's Todd Centeio showcased solid passing skills, totaling 311 yards and two touchdowns, while Percy Agyei-Obese contributed 71 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Coastal Carolina win caps off a perfect season for the Chanticleers.

In a nail-biter, #23 Miami Survives Overtime Thriller, Tops Pittsburgh 28-21

In a dramatic overtime showdown, #23 Miami narrowly clinched victory over Pittsburgh, securing a 28-21 win. Miami initially surged with a commanding 21-0 lead at halftime. However, Pittsburgh stormed back in the second half, rallying to tie the game. The pivotal moment arrived in overtime as Pittsburgh missed a crucial field goal attempt. Miami capitalized on this opportunity, clinching the win with a triumphant touchdown. Miami's QB Tyler Van D. showcased efficiency, delivering three touchdown passes, while HB Henry Parrish powered the ground game with 100 rushing yards. Pittsburgh's QB Kedon Slovis struggled, completing 15 of 39 passes for 124 yards and tallying one touchdown and one interception in a hard-fought battle.

Tennessee's Dominance Unleashed: Vols Crush Vanderbilt 59-14 Behind Jaylen Wright's Stellar Rushing Performance

#4 Tennessee delivered a dominating performance on the road against Vanderbilt, securing a resounding 59-14 victory. The Volunteers exhibited their offensive prowess, with QB Hendon Hooker orchestrating the game, accumulating 249 yards and a touchdown despite a modest 12-of-21 passing record. HB Jaylen Wright spearheaded the ground attack, amassing an impressive 173 yards and contributing two touchdowns. WR Cedric Tillman showcased his skills on the receiving front with four catches and 112 yards. Vanderbilt's QB AJ Swann managed 182 yards, securing two touchdowns but throwing two interceptions, while HB Re'mahn Davis led the rushing with 61 yards. Despite their efforts, Tennessee's dominance prevailed in a one-sided affair.

Oklahoma State's Dominant Performance Over West Virginia Secures a 27-6 Victory

In a commanding victory, Oklahoma State showed strength on both ends, securing a 27-6 win against West Virginia. Quarterback Spencer Sanders orchestrated the offense efficiently, tallying 271 passing yards and two touchdowns, with wideout John Paul Richardson contributing significantly with 96 yards and a touchdown. Despite a valiant effort by West Virginia's J.T. Daniels, who managed 188 passing yards, and Bryce Ford-Wheaton's 90 receiving yards, Oklahoma State's relentless defense stifled their scoring opportunities, sealing the Cowboys' win.

Duke Surprises Wake Forest with 42-37 Victory Despite Second-Half Push

Duke claimed an unexpected 42-37 victory against Wake Forest, capitalizing on a halftime lead despite the latter's valiant second-half efforts. Despite trailing 28-6 at halftime, Wake Forest staged a furious comeback that fell just short. Duke's QB Riley Leonard displayed skill, throwing for 312 yards and two touchdowns, complemented by a solid performance from HB Jordan Waters and WR Jalon Calhoun. Wake Forest's QB Mitch Griffis fought hard with 403 passing yards and three touchdowns, supported by HB Justice Ellison and WR A.T. Perry.

Oregon State Stuns Oregon with 38-31 Comeback Victory in Pac-12 Clash

In a dramatic Pac-12 showdown, Oregon State stunned Oregon with a 38-31 victory, orchestrating a remarkable comeback by shutting out Oregon in the second half and scoring 17 unanswered points. Quarterback Ben Gulbranson led the Beavers' charge, tallying 230 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Running back Damien Martinez contributed 83 yards on the ground, while wide receiver Tre'shaun Harrison's explosive performance added 78 yards and a touchdown. Despite a strong effort from Oregon's QB Bo Nix, who managed 228 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, along with HB Bucky Irving's 106 rushing yards and WR Kris Hutson's touchdown, Oregon couldn't stave off Oregon State's resilient comeback.

Heisman Trophy Race Shaken: Bryce Young Injured, Freshman Sensations Rise as Favorites

The Heisman Trophy race took a dramatic turn as Alabama's star QB Bryce Young suffered a broken ankle early in the Iron Bowl against Auburn, reshuffling the favorites. The current spotlight has shifted to Ole Miss's true freshman sensation, Quinshon Judkins, whose remarkable 1,688 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns have thrust him into contention. Meanwhile, North Carolina's freshman quarterback, Drake Maye, has also caught attention with an impressive 3,614 passing yards and 39 touchdowns this season, making the race an intriguing battle between standout freshmen.

[studbucket]

Any bowl projections out? Would be fun for you to get a matchup with Coastal Carolina, Wisconsin, or Ohio State.