New Challenge, Same Approach: UK Moves from Florida to Murray

Mark Stoops’ phone didn’t stop buzzing after Kentucky’s win over Florida.
 
All totaled, 250 people reached out to Stoops to congratulate him on victory. He responded to every last one.
 
“Twenty-four hours we enjoyed that victory,” Stoops said. “It was a victory that was a long time coming for our fans and for our players. It was a lot of fun and I appreciate their effort.”
 
Stoops continues to appreciate the effort, but the fun is at an end. A new task is at hand.
 
“It’s time to put it behind you and worry about the present and what we’re going to do today to put ourselves in a position to win this week and improve our football team,” Stoops said. “It was a fun 24 hours but it’s time to move on.”
 
The official turning of the page for Stoops came when he stepped into his office on Monday. For the players, that came at a team meeting on Monday afternoon. Stoops is thankful to know he has a group that will be receptive to his message.
 
“I think it’s about talking to them about what our standards are and every team is different,” Stoops said. “Every year is different. I really love this group and the way they handle things and I expect them to handle it that way. Going back to worrying about us and creating our own standards and living up to them. We’ll have a good discussion about that.”
 
Stoops is demanding his team move on from thoughts about what it accomplished in the Swamp to what it needs to accomplish on Saturday when the Wildcats host Murray State at noon at Kroger Field.
 
“Murray is doing some good things,” Stoops said. “They spread the ball out and they spread you some with their splits and create some different looks. They are doing a good job. They got off to a tough start but they are a good football team. Well coached. We have to play well.”
 
The Racers (0-2) might not have the name recognition of the Gators, but UK’s task – in spite of the different in circumstances around it – is the same.
 
“As always, no matter if we are playing Florida or Murray, it’s about us and the way we prepare and the way we play,” Stoops said. “That’s what we are looking for this week.”
 
The Big Blue Nation might still be buzzing from Saturday, but the Cats have work to do.
 
“Now it’s time to put that behind us after we watch this film today and move on to the next opponent in Murray,” Stoops said. “Playing at home and looking to go out and play a good strong game. Play a clean football game and play the way we’re capable of.”