Week 6: Kentucky at Alabama

As the college football world has seen over the last couple of seasons, don’t overlook any game on the schedule. Alabama is coming off a huge win over Georgia and if the Crimson Tide aren’t careful, they could fall victim to a solid Kentucky team. It’s hard to pick against Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban, but there’s certainly a concern of a letdown.

Kentucky ranks first in the NCAA in scoring defense, allowing less than six points per game. However, Norfolk State, MTSU, Western Kentucky and a shorthanded Louisville team in the season opener aren’t quite the toughest challenges. This will be the toughest test the defense has faced this year, especially as they try to match-up against the Alabama offensive line. Led by offensive tackle Andre Smith, the Crimson Tide has one of the best lines in the country, and the line has powered their running game to an average of over 200 yards per game on the ground. In order for the Wildcats to pull the upset, they need to slow down the one-two punch of Glen Coffee and Mark Ingram in the running game and force quarterback John Parker Wilson to win it through the air. Wilson has been solid this year, but has experienced his share of struggles during his career.

Kentucky quarterback Mike Hartline hasn’t posted Andre Woodson-esque statistics, but he’s getting the job done. The sophomore has thrown for 633 yards and three touchdowns while completing 54.1 percent of his passes. Hartline’s favorite target is Dicky Lyons Jr., but he’ll need other weapons to step up this Saturday. The running game is a concern, especially with Tony Dixon battling an ankle injury. Expect sophomore Derrick Locke to see 15-20 carries in this game, as he serves as a nice complement to Dixon and Alfonso Smith. The Alabama defense is allowing less than 15 points per game, and the Wildcat offensive line will have their hands full trying to block defensive tackle Terrence Cody.

Notes:

Injuries could play a major role in Kentucky’s lineup this Saturday. Linebacker Micah Johnson is dealing with a severe ankle sprain and is doubtful to play. Quarterback  Randall Cobb is doubtful with a high ankle sprain, giving the nod to Mike Hartline once again.

Alabama holds a 33-2-1 series edge over Kentucky. The last time the Wildcats notched a win over the Crimson Tide was in 1997.

The Crimson Tide has yet to trail and own a 74-0 scoring advantage over their opposition in the first quarter this season.

Crimson Tide receiver Mike McCoy is doubtful to play against the Wildcats with a hamstring injury.

Key Player (Wildcats) – Derrick Locke, RB

With an inexperienced quarterback and Tony Dixon battling an ankle injury, Locke needs to have a steady performance for the Kentucky offense. The sophomore leads the team with 190 rushing yards and is second in carries with 33. If Locke can find running room, it should help take the pressure off of Hartline and allow the Wildcats to grind out the clock.

Key Player (Crimson Tide) – John Parker Wilson, QB

Although Wilson got a lot of criticism after last season, he’s off to a solid start this year. In five games, Wilson has thrown for 747 yards, six touchdowns and one interception. The senior quarterback doesn’t have to be flashy, but he can’t make mistakes either. With a powerful running game and solid defense leading the way, Wilson won’t be posting huge numbers, but his decision making will be key to winning and losing.

Crimson Tide by 17