Game Day Central: Kentucky vs. Alabama

Cat Walk

Pregame

1st Quarter

Kentucky had the first possession of the game, and the Cats made two first downs, crossing midfield in the process. However, Minchey was sacked and the drive stalled, forcing the Cats into a punt. Alabama took over at its own 20 yard line with 11:04 to play in the first quarter.

The UK defense stepped up huge on the Tide’s first possession. Grant Godfrey forced Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell into an intentional grounding call. The second down play saw Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace tackle Alabama’s Daniel Hill for a two-yard loss. Then on third down, Humphrey-Grace tipped Russell’s pass into the air, caught it and dove into the end zone for a touchdown. Adam Zouagui added the PAT and Kentucky led 7-0 with 10:11 to play in the first period.

On Alabama’s next possession, the Tide got three first downs and drove into UK territory. However, Humphrey-Grace struck again, forcing a fumble that was recovered by teammate CJ Works at the Kentucky 27. The Cats took possession with 7:09 left in the quarter.

On Kentucky’s ensuing possession, Minchey was intercepted by Alabama’s Luke Metz, who returned it 34 yards for a touchdown. Conor Talty added the PAT and the game was tied 7-7 with 6:35 left in the first quarter.

Kentucky would respond with a drive that got the Cats into the red zone as the first quarter ended.