'We understand what's coming here': Kentucky vows to not overlook Toledo

UK WLB DeAndre Square tackles Toledo QB Mitchell Guadagni during the University of Kentucky football game against Toledo at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky on Saturday, August 31, 2019. (© Mike Weaver/Special to Courier Journal, Louisville Courier Journal via Imagn Content Services, LLC)

Toledo is the heavy favorite to win the MAC and has a schedule that is very manageable. The Rockets are a projected favorite in 11 games with a returning starting quarterback, play-calling head coach, and defensive coordinator. There are some line of scrimmage questions but the Rockets have extremely high expectations. Many believe this team is a live dog in Week 1.

Kentucky is aware of the buzz this MAC team has entering the season. Kentucky defensive coordinator Brad White spoke with the media on Thursday and pointed to the fact that Toledo has more votes in the preseason AP Top 25 poll than UK. Despite a huge Week 2 game looming against Ole Miss, UK is taking their first opponent very, very seriously.

Early Scouting Report: Toledo Rockets (KSR+)

“The primary shift is now obviously is heavy Toledo. That’s where the eyes are focused. We know that a big challenge that’s coming in. A really talented offense. Experienced quarterback. Really talented wideout,” said White. “Two running backs that can really get it done. An o-line that’s got experience coming back.”

“We understand what’s coming here. We’re going to have to be really, really prepared and dialed in.”

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Kentucky’s defensive players have heard the message. The team is excited to get back on field and play someone else after a long camp. How focused will the Cats be? They seem to be treating this as one of the biggest games on the schedule.

“Taking it as we playing Georgia,” Kentucky defensive lineman Tavion Gadson said about the opener. “How much energy do you think that’s gonna be? That’s about how much we gonna bring to Toledo.”

Kentucky has heard the noise and acknowledges that the first game will be a legitimate challenge. The Wildcats have vowed not to overlook this Group of Six opponent as the program looks to extend its winning streak against MAC opponents.