Lexington, KY
Aug 31, 2024
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The Kentucky Wildcats opened their 2024 season with a dominant 31-0 victory over the Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Kroger Field, despite multiple lightning delays that suspended the game twice and ultimately led to it being called off with 9:56 remaining in the third quarter. Brock Vandagriff, in his Kentucky debut, threw for three touchdowns and 169 yards, though he had an interception on the first drive. After the first delay exceeding two hours, Vandagriff quickly found his rhythm, connecting twice with Barion Brown for 12-yard scores and once with Jordan Dingle for a five-yard strike.
Kentucky's defense was ruthless, limiting Southern Miss to a mere 131 total yards and intercepting Tate Rodemaker twice, including a critical pick in the end zone by JQ Hardaway. Jamon Dumas-Johnson also hauled in an interception in his first game for the Wildcats. Special teams also shined with Alex Raynor nailing a 41-yard field goal. Kentucky’s steadfast defense, led by standout performances from linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson and cornerback J.Q. Hardaway, and balanced offense yielded an overwhelming victory in this weather-marred contest. The Wildcats now look ahead to their Southeastern Conference opener against South Carolina next week.
Brock Vandagriff (Kentucky Wildcats)
After throwing an interception on the opening drive, Brock Vandagriff rebounded quickly by connecting with Barion Brown for a 12-yard touchdown pass. This established Kentucky's early lead and set the tone for the game.
Jamon Dumas-Johnson (Kentucky Wildcats)
Jamon Dumas-Johnson intercepted a pass on Southern Miss's opening drive, halting their momentum and giving Kentucky excellent field position.
Alex Raynor (Kentucky Wildcats)
Alex Raynor extended Kentucky's lead with a 41-yard field goal, making it 10-0 and providing a cushion for the defense to continue its strong performance.
Demie Sumo-Karngbaye (Kentucky Wildcats)
Demie Sumo-Karngbaye's 1-yard touchdown run capped a strong 75-yard drive, making the score 17-0 and showcasing Kentucky's balanced offensive attack.
Brock Vandagriff (Kentucky Wildcats)
Brock Vandagriff found Barion Brown for another 12-yard touchdown just before halftime, following a failed fake punt by Southern Miss. This play pushed the score to 24-0.
Brock Vandagriff (Kentucky Wildcats)
Vandagriff connected with Jordan Dingle for a 5-yard touchdown pass, following an 84-yard drive. This extended Kentucky's lead to 31-0, sealing the game before it was called off due to lightning.
J.Q. Hardaway (Kentucky Wildcats)
J.Q. Hardaway intercepted a tipped pass in the end zone, stopping Southern Miss's best scoring opportunity and maintaining Kentucky's shutout.
Brock Vandagriff (Kentucky Wildcats, QB)
Making his first collegiate start, Vandagriff completed 12 of 18 passes for 169 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for 35 yards. He managed the game effectively despite an early interception, showcasing his potential as Kentucky's new quarterback.
Barion Brown (Kentucky Wildcats, WR)
Brown caught four passes for 28 yards and two touchdowns, making significant contributions on both ends of the drives. His reliable hands in the end zone helped build a commanding lead before halftime.
Jamon Dumas-Johnson (Kentucky Wildcats, LB)
Former All-American transfer from Georgia, Dumas-Johnson had an interception and provided robust defensive coverage, disrupting Southern Miss's offense. His impact was immediate and constant throughout the game.
Alex Raynor (Kentucky Wildcats, K)
Raynor converted a 41-yard field goal and all four extra-point attempts, adding 7 crucial points to Kentucky's score and maintaining flawless accuracy under pressure.
J.Q. Hardaway (Kentucky Wildcats, CB)
Hardaway intercepted a pass in the end zone, thwarting Southern Miss's best scoring opportunity, which kept Kentucky's shutout intact. He was pivotal in stabilizing the secondary defense.
Tate Rodemaker (Southern Miss Golden Eagles, QB)
Completed 13 of 19 passes for 126 yards but struggled against Kentucky's relentless defense, throwing two interceptions and facing constant pressure. Despite his efforts, he could not generate substantial offensive momentum.
Source
Southern Miss football vs Kentucky: Final score, highlights from Week 1 game
Source
Kentucky-Southern Miss: Game updates, live score in college football
Southern Miss Golden Eagles vs. Kentucky Wildcats Box Score and Stats - August 31, 2024 | FOX Sports
Lightning ends game early as Kentucky beats Southern Miss 31-0
Lightning ends game early as Kentucky beats Southern Miss 31-0
Source
Kentucky Wildcats top Southern Miss Golden Eagles 31-0 in weather-plagued season opener
Kentucky Football: 5 keys to avoiding an upset vs. Southern Miss - A Sea Of Blue
This isn't the same kind of Southern Miss team that came to Kroger Field in 2016
Locked On Kentucky - Daily Podcast On Kentucky Wildcats Football & Basketball | Podcast on Spotify
Southern Miss Golden Eagles
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Kentucky Wildcats
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