Kentucky-Tennessee flashbacks frame Saturday’s rivalry game
John Schlarman’s pregame message, Jamin Davis’ 85-yard interception return and Matt Roark’s 2011 performance anchor the collection.
| Kickoff | 6:15 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Venue | Neyland Stadium |
| Spread | Tennessee -6.5 |
| Total | 49.5 |
| TV | ESPN |
|---|---|
| Streaming | the ESPN app |
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Follow the full play-by-play and box score →Kentucky and Tennessee meet Saturday night at Neyland Stadium, with several Wildcats moments providing historical context for another trip to Knoxville. The series has often tilted Tennessee’s way, but Kentucky’s wins produced speeches, defensive scores and one memorable streak-ending call.
Before what became his final game on the sideline, Kentucky coach John Schlarman addressed the Wildcats while nearing the end of his fight with cancer. He challenged the players to earn Tennessee’s respect and play for teammates who could not be there.
Kentucky responded by intercepting Jarrett Guarantano three times and returning two of those picks for touchdowns. Jamin Davis supplied the longest return, taking one interception 85 yards for a score as the Wildcats recorded their only victory in Knoxville since 1984. Schlarman later died at 45.
Another clip features Cawood Ledford, who spent 39 years as the Voice of the Wildcats. Before his final game in the broadcast booth, Ledford delivered a brief message to Kentucky’s players and told them to beat Tennessee.
In 2011, Kentucky used wide receiver Matt Roark at quarterback. He completed four passes and rushed for 124 yards in Kentucky’s 10-7 win. The victory ended a 26-game losing streak against the Volunteers.
Tom Leach marked the result with one of his signature calls, declaring the streak dead and saying Kentucky had “Rocky Topped Tennessee.” Roark was carried off the field after the win.
Why it matters
Kentucky has won only once in Knoxville since 1984, making the road setting central to these memories. The 2011 victory also ended a 26-game losing streak to Tennessee.
What to watch next
Kentucky and Tennessee play Saturday night at Neyland Stadium.
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