LEXINGTON, Ky. – Vanderbilt could not convert on a fourth-and-short deep in Kentucky territory and had minimal success slowing the running attack, falling 14-7 to the No. 14 Wildcats on Saturday night at Kroger Field.
The Commodores had one final opportunity, taking over with 2:10 remaining in the fourth quarter at their own 14-yard line. After moving the ball into Wildcats’ territory, Kyle Shurmur was sacked and fumbled. UK’s Mike Edwards recovered to ice the game.
The loss dropped Vanderbilt to 3-5 overall and 0-4 in the Southeastern Conference. Kentucky improved to 6-1 overall and 4-1 in the SEC. Shurmur went 15-for-23 through the air for 216 yards and a touchdown.
Jamauri Wakefield led the rush attack with 74 yards on 19 carries. C.J. Bolar hauled in a 29-yard touchdown reception with 6:54 to play in the first quarter, providing the Commodores an early lead. The lead last until Kentucky wideout Lynn Bowden scored from five yards out midway through the second quarter.
UK rusher Benny Snell ran 32 times for 169 yards and a score. Despite being held to 18 yards through the air, the Wildcats rushed for 280 yards including 91 from quarterback Terry Wilson.
Vanderbilt continues its three-game road trip next Saturday, visiting Arkansas. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. on the SEC Network. The Commodores return home again on Nov. 10 when they face Missouri at Vanderbilt Stadium.
