The news is in: another UK bowl game projection... another TN Bowl Game.
I'm as happy as can be that UK will become bowl eligible with their next win. It's the first milestone for every NCAA team in gauging a successful season. However, it should come before the 11th game of the season. And, for this UK program, it should come to prove they've actually made progress from the season before. And, in this case- I don't think it has.
UK beat Charleston Southern this weekend. And, I am of the camp that believes that means nothing. Sure, with an SEC schedule, you need to play weaker teams along the way. But, not that weak (they play in the Big South Conference and have only won 2 games this year) and not at this point in the season. OF COURSE UK won. All it does, though, is get an underachieving team one game closer to a bowl game.
At times, this team has deserved to play for the SEC Championship. Other times, this team doesn't look like it even plays in the SEC. I am sure it frustrates the players and the coaches, but positive, consistent play is what gets you places in the SEC. And, this team has yet to do that.
Though the final score 49-21 suggests dominance, UK still played squirmish defense and missed way too many tackles and opportunities. It's great to have a potent offense, but at some point- the defense has to help you out by making a stop or two.
Breathing room isn't something UK has the luxury of having most seasons, and this one is no different. With the chance of finishing the season 3-0, and ultimately 7-5 for the season, the opportunities are there for UK to grab. But, will they actually take them?
Maybe next year is the season we take the next step from 2007. It's time.
