Clark Lea Preparing Vandy for "Dangerous" Kentucky Football Team

Vanderbilt, yes Vanderbilt, has a shot to make the College Football Playoff. It’s hard to believe, but it’s a possibility if they can finish the season with consecutive wins off a bye week.

A rivalry game in Knoxville against Tennessee awaits. But first, they’ve got to face a Kentucky team that’s on a three-game winning streak.

Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea is not overlooking the Wildcats. In fact, he’s always admired Mark Stoops and previously shared at SEC Media Days that he modeled his program’s rebuild after Kentucky. Even though it wasn’t always pretty for the Wildcats, they’re playing their best football in November.

“You got a team that’s growing in chemistry as the year goes on, which in the portal era, I think takes time sometimes to get people on the same page,” Lea said on the SEC Coaches Teleconference.

“They’re growing their chemistry. They’re also playing complementary football, and they do it with talented players and talented coaches, so no mystery in this league. Every team is dangerous; this one, in particular, is hitting a stride here late in the season.”

Similarities between Kentucky and Vanderbilt

When coaches from the SEC turn on the tape, they’re always quick to note Kentucky’s physicality. Lea expects nothing less from a Mark Stoops team. He believes it’s made a big difference down the stretch for the Cats.

“It’s a testament to Coach Stoops, who I think is a remarkable program-builder in this league. You see his toughness in his team, his resilience in his team,” Lea said.

“Obviously, it’s a testament to his players. They have good players who are playing well. The quarterback makes it go on offense. He’s got some really talented people in the backfield and talented people on the perimeter. But you can see him stepping in and playing with some chemistry and connection with the offense.”

The teams aren’t so different from one another. Diego Pavia is the heart and soul of the Vanderbilt Commodores. Cutter Boley has elevated the play of his entire team. Despite their impressive numbers, they aren’t eager to get into track meets, setting this game up to be one with minimal possessions.

“They’re playing a game control style on offense that starts with what has been an effective run game. Both of their running backs are super talented guys. Very similar to how we have played,” said the Vanderbilt head coach.

“They set themselves up with convertible third downs. They’ve established rhythm on first and second down. They put the quarterback in winning positions that way, and he has grown comfortable. When he’s throwing the ball to Kendrick Law, that’s a really good player out there that takes the attention of all 11 guys.”

The Vanderbilt defense has struggled to slow down opponents. It could create a shootout at FirstBank Stadium. Kickoff is Saturday at 3:30 PM ET on ESPN.