Kroger Field Tailgates Lots to Open Early for Kentucky vs. Alabama

For the second time in 2023, the Kentucky football program is hosting a top 25 program for a noon game at Kroger Field. Many folks around the Big Blue Nation aren’t the biggest fans of the noon kickoff time. Instead of spending the afternoon tailgating, fans are enjoying breakfast before the game. The University of Kentucky is providing a pathway for fans to make the most of an early wake-up call.

Mitch Barnhart shared that fans will receive extra time to tailgate before Nick Saban’s eighth-rankedAlabama football arrives at Kroger Field.

“Kroger Field parking lots will open one hour early at 7 a.m. ET for those who want extra time to tailgate and get ready for the game,” said the Kentucky athletic director.

Mark Stoops asked the Big Blue Nation for a repeat performance from the late September date with Florida. He called on the fans to “pound some beers,” and they happily obliged.

“Once again, I will call on our fans to wake up at Noon and ‘you know what,'” Kentucky’s said with a smirk. “They should be ready to roll, big game. We need a great atmosphere. They have responded all year and we greatly appreciate that. We’re looking forward to getting out there, getting to practice this week, getting better, and preparing for Alabama.”

The fans delivered the energy and Kentucky delivered the haymakers right to the Gators’ jaws. Ray Davis ran for 280 yards and scored four touchdowns en route to a dominant victory over Florida. It’s difficult to imagine a repeat performance against Alabama, but we won’t know if it’s possible unless you’re up and at ’em, ready to pound some beers bright and early Saturday morning.

Subscribe to the KSR YouTube Channel for press conferences, interviews, original shows, fan features, and exclusive content.

SEC Nation coming to Kroger Field

Just like the Florida game, Kentucky will once again play host to SEC Nation. This will be the third time that Kentucky has received the spotlight from the SEC Network’s traveling pregame show this fall. The Wildcats are 3-4 in home games when SEC Nation is in town.

Paul Finebaum will host his show Friday afternoon from the set. The location has not been announced, but was set up last time outside of gate 12 near the Joe Craft Football Training Facility. Laura Rutledge, Roman Harper and Jordan Rodgers will join Finebaum for the show that airs from 10-Noon. Marty and McGee kick things off at 9 am EST. Rodgers will leave the set a little early to join Joe Tessitore and Katie George for the Noon kickoff on ESPN.

Take advantage of the KSR+ BIG GAME SPECIAL to get bonus coverage of Kentucky vs. Alabama, including live game threads, practice reports, an in-depth scouting report, and the latest recruiting intel. 50% off the annual price or $1 for 1 month.