2015 Auburn Football Schedule: Early Predictions
Aug 30, 2014; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Patrick Towles (14) runs the ball against the UT Martin Skyhawks in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Kentucky defeated UT Martin 59-14. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
- Returning Starters, Offense: 7
- Returning Starters, Defense: 7
- Points For: 29.2 PPG (63rd nationally)
- Passing: 231.2 YPG (64th nationally)
- Rushing: 153.3 YPG (79th nationally)
- Points Against: 31.3 PPG (95th nationally)
The Kentucky Wildcats began the 2014 season with a surprising 5-1 record before dropping their final six games and missing the post-season for the fourth consecutive year – the longest streak in the SEC. As disappointing as six straight losses were, the Wildcats showed tremendous improvement in head coach Mark Stoops’ second season and snapped a two-year conference losing streak in the process.
Led by quarterback Patrick Towles, running back Stanley “Boom” Williams and receiver Ryan Timmons, the Wildcats have plenty of tools with which to put up points in 2015. The bigger issue is not only rebuilding a defense that finished 95th nationally in points allowed per game, but replacing two of the most talented pieces of the unit in defensive ends Za’Darius Smith and Bud Dupree to do it.
Looking ahead to the matchup, the Wildcats have an easy non-conference game followed by a bye and a long week to prepare for Auburn. Also, Thursday night road games are always tricky, so this matchup could be more difficult than it looks on paper. However, it’s a game the Tigers should win.
Next: Game 7: at Arkansas