Sept. 24, 2008

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Middle linebacker Micah Johnson and defensive tackle Ricky Lumpkin – two key elements of the Kentucky defense – will not play in Saturday’s game vs. Western Kentucky University, Coach Rich Brooks confirmed Wednesday.

Johnson and Lumpkin sustained high-ankle sprains during the win over Middle Tennessee on Sept. 13. Earlier this week, Brooks had termed the pair as “doubtful” to play vs. WKU.

Johnson is Kentucky’s leading tackler with 17 stops, including 2.5 tackles for loss. Weakside linebacker Braxton Kelley, who started the previous three seasons in the middle, will return to his old position for this week’s game. Junior Mike Schwindel is expected to get the call in Kelley’s place on the weak side.

Lumpkin, the team’s top reserve at his position, has six tackles, including two for loss. In his absence, sophomores Shane McCord and Josh Minton could see more action. Minton returned to practice this week after being sidelined by arthroscopic knee surgery.

The Wildcats (3-0) play host to the Hilltoppers (2-2) on Saturday at 7 p.m. Only scattered single tickets remain. Fans without tickets can watch the game live in Lexington on WKYT and in Bowling Green on WBKO. Fans across the nation (no blackouts) may purchase the game live via ESPN GamePlan.