The Kentucky Wildcats are getting some much-needed rest thanks to a week off between their last and next game.

After a week of rest, the Wildcats will take a trip to Nashville to take on the Vanderbilt Commodores this Saturday at 2:30 PM ET on ESPN.

This Commodore team is not one of old. Bringing in new head coach Mark Byington and 10 new players, they are 15-4 and off to their best start since the 2007-08 season,

The Commodores are coming off a loss to Alabama but beat Tennessee the game before. This means they’re fully capable of pulling the upset if Kentucky does not come prepared.

If the Wildcats want a shot at winning the SEC, or at least a double bye in the SEC Tournament, this is a game they need to win.

Let’s take a look at the matchup.

Paint Defense

Allowing seven of their last eight Power Six opponents to score 80+ points, Kentucky’s defense has left much to be desired of late, specifically the interior defense.

While the Wildcats are in the top 10 in 3-point defense, they are outside the top 200 in 2-point defense, allowing opponents to shoot nearly 52% on 2s. That is an area where Vanderbilt’s offense succeeds and will try to attack.

The best interior defense starts at the perimeter, preventing Vandy’s guards from getting into the lane. Being low and physical at the point of attack will be important. Kentucky also needs to be prepared for some high ball-screen action.

Crash Offensive Glass

Mark Pope says the battle of the boards will continue to be an area to improve in all season. In this matchup, they should have the advantage, especially on the offensive glass.

Vanderbilt’s tallest starter is 6-foot-7, giving Kentucky a very large size advantage. However, the Commodores are scrappy and won’t make it easy. As such, they managed to tie the rebounding battle in their upset bid over Tennessee.

If Kentucky comes prepared, they should win the battle of the glass and have plenty of second chance opportunities.

Take Care of the Ball

Vanderbilt’s defense has its faults, like allowing opponents to shoot better than 35% from 3. However, they have been good at generating turnovers. Forcing 15.8 turnovers per game on the season, the Commodores rank 14th nationally, and in SEC play, that number is 13.7 per contest.

Kentucky has been good at taking care of the ball this season, but Amari Williams has turned the ball over 3+ times in four straight games, with a 0.8:1 assist/turnover ratio. He will be a player that the Commodores will look to force to make mistakes.

Opposing Players to Watch

G Jason Edwards 6-1, 175 lbs

• 17.1 PPG (8th in SEC)
• 38.3% 3P
• 45.8% FG (10th in SEC)

G AJ Hoggard 6-4, 220 lbs

• 11.1 PPG
• 4.4 APG (T-6th in SEC)
• 1.5 SPG

F Devin McGlockton 6-7, 230 lbs

• 10.7 PPG
• 7.9 RPG (T-6th in SEC)
• 64.8% FG

Time: 2:30 PM ET on January 25th

Location: Memorial Gymnasium in Nashville, TN

TV Channel: ESPN

Online Stream: ESPN+ and the ESPN app.

Radio: Tom Leach and Jack Givens will have the call on the UK Sports Radio Network.

Replay: WatchESPN and SEC Network (check local listings).

Rosters: UK | VANDY

Stats to Know: UK | VANDY

KenPom: UK | VANDY

Team Sheet: UK | VANDY

Odds: FanDuel Sportsbook has yet to release the odds for this contest, so check back later. KenPom gives Kentucky a 60% of winning, while BartTorvik is at 55%. ESPN and EvanMiya give the Wildcats just a 59% and 59.2% chance to win, respectively.

Predictions: KenPom (86-83) and EvanMiya (83-80) have the Wildcats winning by one score. BartTorvik has them winning 87-85, while Haslametrics went with an 81-80 margin for the road team. With a week to prepare, I’m predicting an 87-76 victory, Kentucky!

Send us your Kentucky vs. Vanderbilt score predictions in the comments section!

Go CATS!