Oklahoma defense preview: Stein vs Venables a heavyweight matchup
Kentucky travels to Norman to play the Oklahoma Sooners under the lights. Will Stein versus Brent Venables is a heavyweight scheme matchup.
The Kentucky Wildcats are set to face the Oklahoma Sooners in Norman as part of their third road trip of the season. The Sooners have had a rough start to the season but have found some momentum by winning the Red River Rivalry over Texas. The Wildcats will be up against a defensive team led by Brent Venables, who is considered one of the best defensive play callers in the country.
Kentucky's offense, on the other hand, is one of the best in the country with offensive coordinator Joe Sloan doing an exceptional job. Both teams employ eye candy and deception in their plays, making it a heavyweight scheme matchup that will be an incredible spectacle to watch. The Sooners' defense ranks highly in several categories, including EPA per play allowed and success rate allowed.
They also struggle with third downs, allowing teams to convert on just 23.1% of theirs. Kentucky's offensive line will need to continue its success and execute well to keep the pressure off of Kenny Minchey, who has been performing well in SEC road games. The Sooners have a punt return specialist and a strong kicking game with Tate Sandell.
Kentucky's special teams, while not great, have room for improvement. Both teams are coming off impressive SEC wins, and the Wildcats will need to stay the course to emerge victorious on Saturday.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
