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Kentucky Football Dominates Eastern Michigan 48-23 Saturday
Sep 6, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Cutter Boley (8) looks to pass during the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

Kentucky dominated Eastern Michigan 48-23 on Saturday night thanks to a powerful ground game led by Seth McGowan (104 yards, 3 TDs). Also, by an efficient passing performance from first-time this season starter quarterback Cutter Boley (240 yards, 2 TDs).

The Wildcats’ offense was effective in the red zone and found explosive plays in both the run and pass game. The defense surrendered significant yardage but held the Eagles to three field goals in their scoring opportunities. 

Offensive Highlights

  • Cutter Boley: made his first start of the season, throwing for 240 yards and two touchdowns, replacing the injured Zach Calzada. 
  • Seth McGowan: was the driving force of the offense, rushing for 104 yards and three touchdowns on 18 carries. 
  • The Wildcats’ offense was efficient: They scored on seven of seven red zone trips and maintaining over seven yards per play. 
  • Tight ends : Josh Kattus and Willie Rodriguez were key targets, combining for five catches, 89 yards, and two touchdowns. 

Defensive Notes

  • Kentucky’s defense allowed 461 total yards but also forced Eastern Michigan into three turnovers on downs, preventing consistent scoring. 
  • Despite some struggles, particularly with a long touchdown pass and a double move, the defense was solid for most of the game, according to Coach Mark Stoops

Key Game Takeaways

  • The win provided a boost for the Kentucky offense, which had struggled with consistency. 
  • The Wildcats improved on third downs, converting 5 out of 10 opportunities. 
  • Eastern Michigan’s defense was notably poor, ranking 133rd in the nation against the run, which Kentucky exploited. 

Coach Stoops said he was “pleased with the way he played” but not ready to name Cutter Boley the permanent starter after the Eastern Michigan game. He emphasized the need to watch film and consider other factors before making a final decision. Stoops praised Boley’s operational success, awareness, and comfort in the pocket during the game, but also noted the need for him to gain more experience and comfort over time.

Post Game Quotes on Cutter Boley

“I don’t think it would be right for me to make that decision right here and now. I was pleased with the way he played,” Stoops said after the game, indicating he would review the game film and consult his staff before deciding on the starter.

“I thought he was really good with his operation and his presence. I thought his awareness was very good,”Stoops replied on Boley’s performance. Highlighting his poise and good decisions during the game.

“Just watching it, without watching the film and everything, I felt like his awareness seemed pretty good. I think when he buys time and scrambles and has a lot of time, it’ll be different against different opponents,”Stoops noted.

End of My Kentucky Football Rant

Kentucky football has a bye week this Saturday after defeating Eastern Michigan. This gives the Wildcats time to prepare before their next game at South Carolina on September 27, 2025. The bye week will give the Wildcats time to for focus on internal issues.

According to defensive coordinator Brad White, the bye week will be used to address issues and become more consistent as a team. A gauntlet of games ahead starting with the game against South Carolina will be a difficult stretch for Kentucky, which includes games against Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee.

For more Kentucky and college sports coverage from Brad, click here.

Subscribe to College SportsCast for fun, original college sports Shows. Do not miss our weekly new Wildcat Weekly Show for more Kentucky Athletics recaps, previews, and analysis beginning Sept 8th.

This article first appeared on Stadium Rant and was syndicated with permission.

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