Kentucky Wildcats at Tennessee Volunteers Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 11/2/2024 7:45 PM EST

We have your Kentucky Wildcats at Tennessee Volunteers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Kentucky Wildcats hit the road to face the Tennessee Volunteers.

Kentucky Wildcats at Tennessee Volunteers Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Kentucky Wildcats +550 (BetMGM) / Tennessee Volunteers -800 (BetMGM)
Best Spread Odds: -16.5 - Kentucky Wildcats -105 (ESPN BET) / -16.0 - Tennessee Volunteers -110 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 45.5 - Under -110 (Caesars) / Over -110 (ESPN BET)

Game Info

Date: 11/2/2024
Time: 7:45 PM EST
Location: Neyland Stadium (Knoxville, TN)
TV: SEC Network

Kentucky Wildcats at Tennessee Volunteers Preview

The Kentucky Wildcats are set to face a formidable challenge as they travel to Knoxville to take on the No. 7 ranked Tennessee Volunteers. The Wildcats, currently struggling with a 3-5 record and a dismal 1-5 in SEC play, are looking to rebound from a three-game losing streak. Their recent 24-10 loss to Auburn highlighted ongoing issues, particularly in their passing game, which ranks among the worst in the nation. Kentucky's offensive coordinator, Bush Hamdan, has yet to commit to a starting quarterback, leaving the possibility open for both Brock Vandagriff and Gavin Wimsatt to see action. Vandagriff, a Georgia transfer, has been the primary starter, but his performance has been inconsistent, completing just 57.1% of his passes with six touchdowns and five interceptions. Wimsatt, a Rutgers transfer, offers a different dynamic with his running ability, though he has struggled with accuracy, completing only 3 of 10 passes against Auburn.

On the other side, the Tennessee Volunteers are riding high with a 6-1 record, including a 3-1 mark in SEC play. They are coming off a bye week, which followed a significant victory over Alabama. Tennessee's defense has been a standout, ranking third nationally in both points and yards allowed per game. The Volunteers' offense, led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava, is also potent, ranking eighth in the country in yards per game. Tennessee's head coach, Josh Heupel, has prepared his team for the possibility of facing both Kentucky quarterbacks, emphasizing the need for defensive discipline, particularly against Wimsatt's running threat.

The Volunteers will also be donning their popular "dark mode" uniforms, a look that has brought them success in past matchups against Kentucky. With a strong home-field advantage at Neyland Stadium and a history of dominance in this rivalry, Tennessee is poised to continue their winning streak against the Wildcats. The game promises to be a test of Kentucky's resilience against a Tennessee team that is eyeing a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Kentucky Wildcats at Tennessee Volunteers Pick: Total Points Over

As the Kentucky Wildcats prepare to face the Tennessee Volunteers, the potential for a high-scoring affair is evident, making the over on the total points an enticing pick. Tennessee's offense, led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava, is one of the most potent in the nation, ranking eighth in yards per game. The Volunteers have consistently demonstrated their ability to put up points, as evidenced by their recent victory over Alabama, where they scored 24 points against a formidable defense. Additionally, Tennessee's offensive prowess is complemented by their strategic use of the "dark mode" uniforms, which have historically brought them success and confidence, particularly against Kentucky.

On the defensive side, while Tennessee boasts a strong unit, the Wildcats' potential to utilize both Brock Vandagriff and Gavin Wimsatt at quarterback could introduce an element of unpredictability. Wimsatt's running ability, in particular, could exploit any lapses in Tennessee's defensive discipline, potentially leading to scoring opportunities for Kentucky. Despite Kentucky's struggles in the passing game, the dual-threat capability of their quarterbacks could create enough offensive momentum to contribute to a higher total score.

Moreover, the historical context of this rivalry suggests a tendency for competitive matchups, with Tennessee covering the spread in recent meetings. The Volunteers' aggressive defense, combined with Kentucky's need to rebound from a three-game losing streak, sets the stage for a dynamic game where both teams will be eager to make a statement. Given these factors, the over on the total points is a compelling choice, as both teams have the potential to exceed expectations and deliver an exciting, high-scoring contest at Neyland Stadium.

Kentucky Wildcats at Tennessee Volunteers Top Player Prop Picks

Nico Iamaleava Over 275.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (Caesars)

Nico Iamaleava has been a key component of Tennessee's offensive success this season, leading a unit that ranks eighth nationally in yards per game. With the Volunteers coming off a bye week and riding the momentum of a significant victory over Alabama, Iamaleava is poised to exploit a Kentucky defense that has struggled to contain opposing offenses. The Wildcats have one of the worst passing defenses in the nation, ranking 127th in completion percentage allowed. Given Tennessee's potent aerial attack and Iamaleava's ability to distribute the ball effectively, the over on 275.5 passing yards is a strong play. The Volunteers' offensive scheme, combined with their home-field advantage and the energy of their "dark mode" uniforms, should provide Iamaleava with ample opportunities to surpass this line.

Dylan Sampson Over 100.5 Rushing Yards Rushing Yards -110 (BetMGM)

Dylan Sampson has been a standout performer for the Volunteers, ranking second in the SEC for rushing yards. His ability to break through defenses has been a critical factor in Tennessee's offensive strategy. Against a Kentucky team that has struggled defensively, particularly in recent losses, Sampson is well-positioned to have a significant impact on the ground. The Wildcats' defense has been unable to stop the run effectively, and with Tennessee's offensive line providing strong support, Sampson should find plenty of running lanes. The Volunteers' balanced offensive attack will likely keep Kentucky's defense on its heels, allowing Sampson to exceed the 100.5 rushing yards mark.

Brock Vandagriff Under 200.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (ESPN BET)

Brock Vandagriff has had an inconsistent season as Kentucky's starting quarterback, completing just 57.1% of his passes with a modest six touchdowns against five interceptions. Facing a Tennessee defense that ranks third nationally in both points and yards allowed per game, Vandagriff is likely to struggle to find success through the air. The Volunteers' aggressive defensive front and disciplined secondary have been effective in shutting down opposing quarterbacks, and with Kentucky's passing game ranking among the worst in the nation, Vandagriff is unlikely to surpass the 200.5 passing yards threshold. Tennessee's ability to pressure the quarterback and force turnovers will further limit Vandagriff's opportunities to accumulate passing yards.