The team that has already proven its capabilities to upset the top conferences over the last few years is Jacksonville State. The Division I-AA opponent has already took many by surprise by opening up as a NINE point favorite, according to the USA today. Despite being the surprise underdog, the Wildcats can still easily take a big win away from the Gamecocks on Saturday. After losing the leading rusher in true freshman Josh Clemons last week to a knee injury, the Wildcats will have to depend on quarterback Morgan Newton with his legs and not just his arm. With Raymond Sanders coming off knee surgery, the whole offense may depend on the junior quarterback. However, can Kentucky finally overcome its offensive struggles?
[B]Looking at the stats: [/B]When the Wildcats line up against the Gamecock defense on Saturday, they will be facing a defensive unit that looks to be weak in the passing game allowing almost 280 yards a game to opponents. But what can Kentucky do? Anther key stat that Wildcats could use to their advantage is penalties. The one thing that may seem a little high when you compare them to others. However, with no life on offense yet, who will be the surprise play maker on Saturday? My guess is either Morgan Newton will come to life, or La’Rod King will have a break out game in the passing game as well.
[B]Washaun Ealey, can they stop him?: [/B]The former Georgia running back has exploded his way into the Gamecock offense so far this season. After leaving Georgia, Ealey has already gained nearly 600 yards, and is averaging a century a game on only 114 carries. As many fans know, the one time SEC rusher set a Georgia school record last season by adding 5 touchdowns against the Wildcats with 157 yards. The question I’m sure Rick Minter and company will have to answer on Saturday is how are we going to stop this kid?
With so much lack of productiveness out of the offense, the defense has been depended on more than you would want early on in the season. However, I believe this week the Wildcats have nothing to lose and will try some trickery in order to get the offense going this week. Nevertheless, it will be a back and forth battle in Lexington meaning I’m calling this one a toss up.
[B]Key Player: [/B]Junior running back Washaun Ealey (JSU). 114 carries, 594 yards, 5TDs.
