3-2-1: Defensive line issues, finding offensive consistency
This week's 3-2-1 is the first since UK's season opener. We're asking questions, giving answers and making a bold prediction.
What we've learned
1. The defensive line has major problems. The defensive line wasn't the only problem in Kentucky's 44-35 loss to Southern Miss, but it was a major problem. Possibly the biggest problem. Courtney Miggins made some plays up front for the Cats but beyond him Kentucky didn't get consistent production or play from any defensive lineman. Matt Elam may have lost weight but his play, although good at times, left something to be desired. The line didn't get a lot of penetration and while they did allow for the linebackers to get through on the blitz a few times, they didn't play well. The most ominous part: There don't appear to be any easy solutions.
Premium link: Upon Further Review - What went wrong with UK's defense?
Premium link: Upon Further Review - Grading Drew Barker's season opener
2. Drew Barker has improved. The Kentucky offense of the second half was far from dynamic. Barker made some mistakes. But all in all the Cats' redshirt sophomore quarterback turned in a performance that should make fans feel good about the future of the position. He was mostly accurate, spread the ball around and made some good decisions. If he and the offense can improve their consistency the Cats could score a lot of points this year.
3. Special teams still need work. It's far too early to say the special teams unit will be a problem for Kentucky all season but in the Cats' season opener there were struggles. Kentucky didn't break any plays in the return game, although their coverage was solid. One of the snaps on a field goal attempt was mishandled, leading to a failed conversion attempt on the pass to Austin MacGinnis. And Southern Miss deflected the punt after UK's first offensive drive, resulting in a short field and subsequently a 7-0 lead.
What we're asking
1. Can the offense find some consistency? To win in the Swamp the Cats' offense is going to have to turn in a more consistent performance. Playing well for one half and then struggling to move the chains the next half isn't going to cut it. Kentucky won't have a 35-point outburst in the first half against Florida, but at the very least the offense must consistently move the chains, give the defense a breather and control some clock.
Free link: By the numbers - Analyzing UK's 44-35 loss to USM
Premium link: House of Blue postgame discussion, transcripts, videos
2. Will we see a more aggressive defensive game plan against the Gators? It became clear over the course of nearly 70 Southern Miss rush attempts that Kentucky's defense was incapable of sitting back and slowing down the Golden Eagles when they committed to running the football. Some of Kentucky's blitzes did pay off and got Southern Miss off the field, particularly in the first half. Kentucky has plenty of length and speed on defense but note a lot of guys on the front seven who can get off blocks and make tough plays in the box. Would a more aggressive, blitz-oriented and attacking style of defense be what this personnel is better-suited for? It could be. We'll see if that's the plan.
Bold prediction
Kentucky will play Florida to a close game in the Swamp. We'll save the actual score and result predictions for later this week, but for the third consecutive year it will be a nail biter between Kentucky and Florida. The Cats will bounce back from their emotionally draining loss to Southern Miss and put forth a good effort in Gainesville.