2 weeks Ago
With 76 wins as head coach, Mark Stoops is the all-time winningest coach in Kentucky Wildcats history, surpassing the legendary Bear Bryant. During his tenure, Stoops has led Kentucky to eight bowl games, matching the total the team has achieved since 1993. His four bowl victories match the total the program achieved since 1984.
However, following his remarkable 2021 season, in which he led Kentucky to its second 10-win season under his guidance, the Wildcats have struggled to build on that success. Currently sitting at 3-5, the Wildcats are at risk of missing a bowl game, which would end their program-record streak of eight consecutive bowl appearances. On the "Paul Finebaum Show," the SEC Network analyst mentioned that something has been off about Kentucky, starting a few seasons ago.
"I know some people have blamed it on injuries," Finebaum said. "But, I don't go that way. I just think there's a malaise in that program that's been there for almost two years.
I'm not overly optimistic it's going to be corrected." © Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports The Wildcats have a record of 7-6 the last two seasons and have also struggled with a losing conference record during that time. To secure a bowl berth, Kentucky will need to win one of its final two games against ranked opponents and both of its games against unranked opponents.
The Wildcats will have their first shot at one of their ranked opponents as they will face the Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday at 7:45 p.m. ET on the SEC Network.
Related: Paul Finebaum Names SEC Coach Who Might Leave After 'Dumpster Fire of a Season'.
