Execution Errors on Defense Led to Big Plays for Tennessee Offense

The Kentucky defense knew the play was coming. The Wildcats knew Hendon Hooker would be looking for Jalin Hyatt. They practiced it for two weeks. Yet when the time finally came, No. 11 got loose too many times Saturday night at Neyland Stadium.

Entering the game against the nation’s top-ranked offense, the UK defense allowed only six pass plays of 30+ yards all season. Hyatt had three against the Cats. Two resulted in touchdowns, including a 55-yarder on the first drive of the game.

“We had breakdowns on our defense, but give credit to Tennessee. They took what we gave them and executed,” cornerback Keidron Smith said after the 44-6 loss.

“The fact that it didn’t get passed off was a little disappointing,” added defensive coordinator Brad White. “But I was proud of the guys, the second drive they rebounded. We talked about a fast start, make ’em earn it and we were doing it. They were having to earn it…. But at the end of the day it wasn’t good enough.

“We didn’t create any short fields for the offense. We knew we were going to have to create some turnovers. We did not. I was proud of the guys’ fight. They fought the entire game. I thought their mentality was right, but there was a couple gimmes and that’s the deal we talked about. If they’re going to make contested catches, tip of the cap. But don’t just cut ’em free and there was at least three plays where a guy was way too open.”

They Kentucky defense did keep the Vols at bay after that opening drive, but they didn’t get much help. Tennessee started five straight possessions in UK territory before the dam ultimately broke, leading to a blowout on Rocky Top.

“There were things we did well, but not well enough and not consistently enough,” said White. “Against that offense you gotta be on it. We weren’t.”