Kentucky Takes Sole SEC Lead After Vanderbilt Win

Kentucky moved into sole possession of first place in the SEC after beating Vanderbilt 34-17, improving to 7-1 overall and 5-1 in conference play while Georgia was idle. The Wildcats’ position is a remarkable start for first-year coach Will Stein and gives them a one-game cushion over Georgia, with other SEC contenders carrying at least two league losses. Kentucky’s schedule and recent results elsewhere have strengthened its playoff case: ESPN’s FPI now gives the Wildcats a 52.2% chance to reach the 12-team College Football Playoff, and analysts point to their résumé and strength of record as among the nation’s best. After a bye, Kentucky faces Tennessee, Florida and Missouri to close its SEC schedule.