Kentucky Wildcats Handicapping Positives Prior to start of 2014 season: 8 starters back on defense, including 13 sacks returning at the DE positions and all 4 '13 d-backs starters; 4 offensive linemen returned; a Head Coach with coordinating experience and great bloodlines - Mark Stoops.
Kentucky Wildcats Handicapping Negatives Prior to start of 2014 season: The Wildcats had a great nucleus of returning starters back from 2013. The biggest negative going into 2014 was the same negative that precedes Kentucky's start of any FBS season: they play in the SEC! The Lexington-based squad always has to deal with the fact that no matter how many starters return and how good they may be perceived to be, Kentucky has to play SEC, talent-rich teams. Very tough spot for them and tough handicapping spot for guys like me.
EdgySam's Summary of Kentucky's 2014 Season: The Wildcats ran the ball fairly well this past season; they played pretty good defense vs. both the pass and the run. The biggest problem was their passing attack was abysmal. Still, Kentucky beat Vandy and South Carolina, lost to Florida in overtime, and, decisively beat every team they played outside of the SEC, except for Louisville. It's important to note that even in the Louisville loss, Kentucky played very well. Overall, not a bad season from Mark Stoops' Wildcat team.
EdgySam's Quick Outlook for Kentucky in 2015: 4 starters will return to the Wildcat O-Line; the RB and Rec positions will be experienced; two star defensive ends will be gone and only 6 starters return on defense. Here's the problem: unless the Wildcats get decent QB play from someone, they will be competitve when they play teams outside the SEC, but, be a bottom-dweller when playing in the SEC. Ahh to have Rich Brooks back.
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