Article by: Robbie Kan, Contributing Writer

Kentucky expected an easy tune-up game on Sept. 15, which was a beautiful afternoon in Lexington, KY, against South Alabama. 

The matchup was significant as the two programs entered the game from two completely different positions. As an SEC team, Kentucky has significantly more resources and a stronger reputation, playing in one of the nation’s biggest conferences. South Alabama, a Sun Belt team, lacks the same resources and money that Kentucky holds. Recognizing this, South Alabama came into the game as 21.5 underdogs and was supposed to face a blowout from the, on-paper, much more talented Wildcats. 

Coming into this game, South Alabama had defeated Ohio 41-36 at home after a whopping 458 yards from scrimmage. Kentucky saw similar success as they rolled into College Station against No. 9 Texas A&M and won 31-21. That said, almost nobody expected South Alabama to put up a fight.

The game started close, with both teams trading touchdowns in the first half. Kentucky led by a score of 24-21 at halftime. Unfortunately, South could not keep the momentum going and eventually lost 45-21. While the final score was a blowout, South was competitive throughout most of the game. If the Jaguars were able to convert a few more important third- and fourth-down conversions, South could have succeeded with a closer score.

Again, even though South lost comfortably to the Wildcats, quarterback Jared Hollins played well, and the defense was able to force multiple turnovers. Ultimately, the talent gap proved to be too much in the second half. Fortunately for the Jaguars, there will not be another opponent on the schedule as talented as Kentucky. 

Next, South will face Louisiana-Monroe in a homecoming matchup in Hancock-Whitney. Louisiana-Monroe is 0-4 coming off a loss at home to Florida Atlantic. While anything can happen, expect USA to be favorites in an easy start to Sun Belt play.