2014 vs. 2015: The Numbers Game

Kentucky’s 2015 late-season slide feels different than 2014’s version. Did a little digging, numbers reveal why…

DEFENSE

Scoring Defense

2014: 31.3

2015: 28.1

Rushing Defense

2014: 191

2015: 189.3

Pass Defense

2014: 215

2015: 211

Total Defense

2014: 406.9

2015: 400.8

Tackles for Loss

2014: 65

2015: 40

Interceptions

2014: 15

2015: 6

Quarterback Sacks

2014: 27

2015: 13

3^rd Down Conversion

2014: 42.17%

2015: 41.10%

OFFENSE

Scoring Offense

2014: 29.2

2015: 21.4

Rushing Offense

2014: 153

2015: 144

Passing Offense

2014: 231

2015: 218

Total Offense

2014: 384 yards

2015: 362

Tackles for Loss Allowed

2014: 84

2015: 66

Interceptions

2014: 11

2015: 15

3^rd Down Conversion

2014: 33.8 %

2015: 36%

What does all this mean?

Significant numbers are the ones that lead to flipped field position, change of game’s momentum, or possession. Kentucky’s defense finished 2014 with 15 interceptions, 27 QB sacks, and 65 tackles for loss. All of which are significantly greater than 2015’s output. 2015’s group is giving up slightly less yards in most categories.

Offensively, points per game decreased by slightly more than a touchdown as interceptions have increased. QB sacks are slightly lower than 2014 which surprised. Cats are averaging 22 less total yards per game but converting a higher percentage on third down. The 14 Wildcats ranked 11th in explosion plays, it currently is eighth. Third down conversion percentages are up from a year ago. There were no statistics to support, but dropped passes and ineffective short yardage plays have contributed to a lower scoring average.

UK has two remaining games to raise or lower averages. On Saturday, I’d expect a rise in offensive statistics and lowering from their defensive counterparts.

*Please note 2014 numbers reflect a 12-game schedule. 2015 statistics are compiled from 10 completed contests and can improve or decline based on production.