Will Boom Williams be able to wear down the Tigers’ defense? (photo/UKAthletics)
When the Missouri Tigers face the Kentucky Wildcats at the revamped Commonwealth Stadium in Lexington on Saturday, it would seem that if either team is going to score more than 20 points, the defense will have a hand in it. No doubt after three games into the season, both Mizzou and UK are still trying to find their groove.
Yet, Shane Bailey from SECSportsRoundTable.com, believes the Wildcats stout offensive line and strong running game led by Boom Williams will eventually wear down the Tigers defense.
Florida has the number two overall defense in the SEC, allowing just 258 yards per game. In the Gators 14-9 win over Kentucky, they held Williams to 80 yards on the ground. Despite the off night for Boom, he’s still averaging 8.1 yards per carry. That includes two SEC conference games, not opponents who are necessarily cupcakes. Florida’s run defense is the best in the SEC allowing just 166 yards on the ground in three games.
Then there is the Mizzou defense. Tops in the SEC with just 217 yards allowed per game, holding opponents to 3.3 yards per play. yet Bailey believes Kentucky will look stronger down the stretch. By the way, UK ranks 12th in the SEC with 166.7 yards per game.
As you watch our chat, you’ll notice a lot of similarities between these two teams. In the end, I believe it will be Maty Mauk, who plays better in the second half, and the Tigers offense that will eventually wear down Kentucky for a win.
