Alabama Crimson Tide games against Kentucky have been statement opportunities for Alabama for decades. The roles will be reversed on Saturday. The Wildcats will seek a statement win against the Crimson Tide.
The Wildcats are 9-4, which is poor start by Kentucky standards. Worse for Mark Pope were two blowout losses. Michigan State beat Kentucky 86-66, and Gonzaga beat the Cats 94-59 in an almost home game in Nashville. Bridgestone Arena was filled with Big Blue fans, many of whom began booing the Cats in the first half.
It is believed that Kentucky has the largest player payroll budget among SEC teams.