The Kentucky Wildcats fell to Knoxville after three straight losses looking to upset the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. It was wild, especially since both teams started slow in their first series. It marked the Wildcats’ fourth straight game without a score when inside the 5-yard line. Kentucky took a 10-7 lead into halftime thanks to a field goal and touchdown reception by tight end Josh Kattus, and just when they thought they were out of play, an incredible touchdown reception by Ja’Mori Maclin brought them back. to the game.

Vandagriff left during the third quarter after taking a hard hit on a sack and never returned, which appeared to be related to a concussion, although his exact status has not been confirmed. The Wildcats were in the game throughout the fourth quarter, but lost it in the final minutes, essentially sealing the game after Tennessee scored a touchdown to go up 10 points on the previous possession.

Here are some takeaways from the loss, which makes it four straight losses for the Wildcats.

The Wildcats may not have gotten the win, but they certainly showed their fight. Many thought they wouldn’t keep this game close, but Kentucky’s defense did a great job and their offense came on early after they failed to score on the first drive. They held their own against the No. 7 team, but crucial mistakes and an inability to score in the final minutes gave Tennessee the victory. Kentucky going scoreless and allowing a touchdown later in the fourth quarter really was the turning point. Self-inflicted mistakes seemed to have haunted them again tonight late in the game.

With the loss, Kentucky moves to 3-6 overall on the season and 1-6 in SEC play. To be bowl eligible, the Wildcats must be above .500 in winning percentage, and that has become even more challenging with three games remaining. To win all three, Kentucky would have to win against Murray State, its in-state rival Louisville, and pull off a surprising upset over Texas, which currently sits outside the top 5 in the nation. It’s going to be increasingly difficult for Kentucky to keep their bowl game streak alive as they will have to win the last few games.

Kentucky suffered its fourth straight loss and now, barring a surprising road upset in Texas, will begin its final three games of the year. If the Wildcats want to play a fourth game, they will have to put up the same fight they did Saturday in Knoxville.