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Tennessee football at Kentucky: 10 keys to the game for Vols and Wildcats

By Caleb Calhoun

Oct 3, 2020; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; A general view before the game between Kentucky and Ole Miss at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2020; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; A general view before the game between Kentucky and Ole Miss at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Tennessee Football Coach Josh Heupel during a football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021.Kns Tennessee Alabama Football Bp
Tennessee Football Coach Josh Heupel during a football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021.Kns Tennessee Alabama Football Bp /

8. Strongest first quarter

It’s well-documented how well Tennessee football has been playing in the first quarter, and sometimes early into the second quarter, throughout this year. They lead the nation in points per game in the first quarter with 15.7, and they are No. 33 in points allowed per game in the first quarter at 4.3, giving them an insane 11.4 first-quarter margin.

Heck, the Vols had a 14-7 lead at the Alabama Crimson Tide just two weeks ago as the first quarter came to an end. However, on the other hand, Kentucky is an underrated first-quarter team and has also played well during those 15 minutes.

For the year, UK is No. 30 in first quarter points per game with 8, and they are No. 16 in first quarter points allowed per game with 3, giving them a 5-point first quarter margin. That’s not bad, and even in blowout losses to teams like the Georgia Bulldogs, they kept the first quarter at a scoreless tie.

Taking that into account, who wins the quarter on Saturday? Well, it’s safe to say that if the Vols lose it, they are in more trouble than if Kentucky loses it, as Kentucky is not as bad in the second quarter as UT is. Both teams need to win the first, but Rocky Top definitely needs it more.

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