WATCH: Jordan Wright makes incredible interception on Anthony Richardson
Kentucky linebacker Jordan Wright gave the Wildcats a burst of life at the end of the first half with an incredible interception. With Florida taking control of the ball with just over two minutes remaining in the half, Anthony Richardson threw an ill-advised pass into the hands of Wright — who made an athletic play to secure the ball and win possession for Kentucky at the goal line.
The play helped set the Wildcats up for a quick touchdown, bringing their deficit down to 16-13 before the break. Wright nearly returned the ball into the end zone himself after the big play, but an impressive open field tackle by Richardson kept him from scoring it himself.
Wright’s big play is exactly why Kentucky fans were so glad to see him return to the field, as he returned to action for the team following his absence last week. The play came at a pivotal moment, and would have been for the game-tying touchdown possibly if not for two major mistakes by Kentucky’s special teams — with two bad snaps leading to the three-point deficit.
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On the drive before Wright’s interception, Kentucky attempted to punt the ball when an errant snap went well over the head of the punter — resulting in a safety for Florida. Then, after Will Levis was able to punch the ball into the end zone for Kentucky after Wright’s interception, Kentucky missed the snap on the extra point attempt and left another point off the board.
Kentucky fans entered the season wondering about the status of Wright and fellow star, running back Chris Rodriguez, after both missed the season opener for reasons that coach Mark Stoops would not reveal. The reason behind his mystery absence was not made clear by the team, but his return was a welcome one prior to their trip to Gainesville on Saturday.