Kroger Field. Kentucky falls to Tennessee 33-27. Elliott Hess | UK Athletics

Kentucky Wildcats

2024 Finish: 4-8. 1-7 (SEC)

2025 Prediction: 2-10, 0-8 (SEC)

Overview:

I miss the days when Kentucky was okay, which was only like two years ago. Now, it’s a dumpster fire. How was their only SEC win Ole Miss? I feel like all I heard from Wildcat fans was the game against Georgia and how they should have won that game. Regardless, it’s a new season, but I still think it actually gets worse for Kentucky. A rigorous schedule with the fanbase out of it is the last thing that Kentucky has going for them.

Offense: 

Brock Vandagriff retired, so they had to go get Zach Calzada who has plenty of experience. Maybe not good experience, but experience nontheless. Troy Stellato and Kendrick Law should be really good. Jamarion Wilcox was pretty good in his time last year, and this offensive line is mostly transfers other than Jager Burton. There is plenty of experience, but I don’t know how well they will be during conference play.

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Defense: 

With the loss of Deone Walker and Maxwell Hairston, a lot of names are going to have to step up. JQ Hardaway and DJ Waller Jr. are anticipated to be the key players at the cornerback position for Kentucky in the 2025 season. Both bring a combination of experience and potential that could make this group a strength for the Wildcats’ defense. Jaden Williams at nose and Kahlil Sanders should be really good, as Kentucky has produced some good interior guys. Much like the offense, it is loaded with transfers, and we will see how this corps performs during conference play.

Kentucky falls to Clemson 38-35 in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl. Jacob Noger | UK Athletics
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Special Teams

Wilson Berry is the punter, with Jacob Kauwe taking field goals and PATs. Ja’Mori Maclin should be a reliable punt and kick return man.

Final Thoughts: 

Yeah, there’s experience, but I don’t think there is enough talent. Experience can get you places, but talent takes you over the edge. Plus, it’s a rough schedule where they play both of the SEC favorites and other tough tests. It’s not the Year of the Cats just yet, and there may never be.