Stephen Johnson looks to throw during a recent practice – Johnson threw for 176 yards and 1 touchdown, while adding a touchdown on the ground in a 24-17 win vs. Southern Miss – Photo by Keyli Chisesi (Go Big Blue Country)
The Kentucky Wildcats got all they could handle and more from the Southern Miss Golden Eagles in the season opener. A year removed from an embarrassing loss in Lexington, the Wildcats got revenge by holding on for 24-17 win. It wasn’t the prettiest to watch at times but Mark Stoops will take a season opening win, especially after losing last year’s matchup.
Quarterback Stephen Johnson did an excellent job managing the game and not turning the ball over, in area he struggled with last season. The UK senior did an excellent job spreading the ball around, completing a pass to 8 different Wildcats. One of those targets was tight end C.J. Conrad, who hauled in 2 receptions for 82 yards and a touchdown. Johnson completed 11-of-20 passes for 176 yards and 1 touchdown, while adding an 8-yard rushing touchdown on the first play of the 2nd quarter.
The offense got limited production from the ground game, as Southern Miss was focused on limiting Benny Snell Jr. The sophomore running back was held to 67 yards on 20 carries, while the Wildcat rushing attack altogether was held to 78 yards.
The Wildcats won the turnover battle with 3 takeaways to only one giveaway. Southern Miss outgained Kentucky 367 to 257, but penalties and turnovers made up the difference. The Wildcats committed 8 penalties for 60 yards, while the Golden Eagles were penalized 8 times for 104 yards.
When the offense was struggling, the defense found ways to pick them up. Josh Allen and Denzil Ware consistently found themselves in the backfield. Ware forced a fumble that led to a recovery and he also picked up a fumble, which resulted from a Darius West hit, and returned it for a touchdown.
More info and stats will be included in a write up to follow post game pressers.
