NCAAF Week 9: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Kentucky Wildcats betting picks, preview

Both of these teams are fighting for respect in the pecking order of the SEC, especially with Texas and Oklahoma looming. Tennessee has been a disappointment this season. That might be harsh, as really, it has been a case of not being able to beat good teams on the road. Kentucky has lost their last couple of games. Georgia was expected, Mizzou, less so. They have something to prove for sure. 

Tennessee Volunteers vs. Kentucky Wildcats Betting Trends and Odds 

Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023 — 7 p.m. ET

Odds: Tennessee -3.5, Over/under 51.5, Tennessee -175 | Kentucky +145

Before last week's loss to Mizzou, I think the Wildcats would have been favored at home this week. That might create a buying opportunity, especially if you have a hard time believing that Tennessee is going to finally find its road mojo. The Vols walloped the Wildcats last year at home. Two of the last three times they played in Lexington it was a three-point game. 

Pick for Tennessee vs. Kentucky

Kentucky +3.5

At this point, even after the loss to Georgia, and the humbling loss to Mizzou, I still believe more in Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops and what he has built at Kentucky (over Josh Heupel at Tennessee). Kentucky quarterback Devin Leary has not worked out the way he was supposed to, however, he is still a veteran with a lot of game experience. Tennessee QB Joe Milton has far more tools, but they do not seem to trust him as much (as they want), other than to run. This game likely turns on a mistake and I think the Vols, especially on the road, are more likely to make one. Tennessee has the capacity to blow out Kentucky, but perhaps not vice versa. The home side keeps it close and wins or covers late. I hope you love watching teams rush the football. That is the strength of both offenses. 

Right now it is looking like a pretty even split on the tickets for this game. That is rare, it also means the line is likely to hold steady. Make sure you get at least +3 here with Kentucky.