Tennessee beats Kentucky 34-6

Tennessee football entered Saturday night as a 16th ranked team facing an eighth ranked opponent. The Vols (7-2, 4-2 in the Southeastern Conference) defeated Kentucky (7-2, 4-2) by a score of 34-6 in Knoxville.

Head coach Josh Heupel credited the team's sideline presence for the victory. Volunteers linebackers coach William Inge returned to the field after a two month absence. Inge had been hospitalized for most of October due to a serious medical condition that was not disclosed to the public. He is currently recovering at home.

Heupel described Inge's recovery as a miracle. The coach stated that the team gave Inge a game ball to recognize his return. Heupel noted that the coaching staff and players had prayed for Inge daily during his hospitalization.

The defensive unit limited Kentucky's scoring opportunities to two field goals. The Wildcats did not reach the red zone in the second half of the game. Tennessee's defense allowed only two red zone penetrations in total. Both of those drives ended with kicks rather than touchdowns.

Senior linebacker Arion Carter led the defense with 13 tackles. He recorded two sacks, four tackles for loss, and one quarterback hurry. Carter said that seeing Inge on the sideline provided a boost for the players. Safety Qua Moss, a transfer from Penn State, forced both fumbles that Kentucky turned over. Moss finished with nine tackles, a sack, and a quarterback hurry.

The Vols forced three turnovers against the Wildcats. Kentucky converted on five of 12 third down attempts. The Wildcats failed to convert on two fourth down situations. Heupel pointed out that Kentucky held the ball in plus territory and the 50 yard line. He said the defense performed well in those areas to stop drives.

The win keeps Tennessee in the top 20 of the AP poll. The team remains in the Southeastern Conference race. Kentucky also remains in the top 10. Both teams will continue their schedules in the coming week.