NASHVILLE, Tenn - Kentucky had a new coach. Western Kentucky had a new coach. But would the faces changing mean the result would change from last year, a Western Kentucky upset of their in-state rival school from the SEC?
WKU coach Bobby Petrino
No, Stoops, we did it again as the Hilltoppers extended their win streak over the Wildcats to two in a game Western Kentucky thoroughly dominated in most respects. The game marked the debut for WKU head coach Bobby Petrino, who extended his career college record to 9-0 in opening season contests.
WKU quarterback Brandon Doughty was 27 of 34 for 271 yards and one touchdown, leading the Hilltoppers to scores in three of their first four possessions.
There were a few bright spots for Kentucky on the night. Jalen Whitlow started at quarterback, and moved the team at times with runs, but finished the night 10-for-15 for only 78 yards in the air, but seven carries for 75 yards rushing. Max Smith relieved Whitlow in the 4th quarter and threw for 8-for-13 for 125 yards and one touchdown. Is there a quarterback battle brewing? Might be enough for a change in philosophy next week.
Raymond Sanders rushed 14 times for 98 yards, with a long of 49. Ryan Timmons ripped one for 33 yards, and UK as a whole rushed for more than 200 yards on the day. Establishing the run can only help the passing game.
And speaking of the passing game, Demarco Robinson appeared to be a nice threat at wide receiver, grabbing 5 receptions for 69 yards, including a touchdown. Anthony Kendrick added three catches for 56 yards to show some big gain threat.
Avery Williamson led the UK defensive effort with a game-high 14 tackles, with Khalid Henderson joining him in double digit tackles with 10.
Kentucky faces Miami (Ohio) next week in Commonwealth Stadium in Mark Stoops' home debut as head coach of the Wildcats.
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