Opposing Perspective: Getting the Kentucky side of things ahead of the Gator Bowl

Andrew Stefaniak of Wildcats Today breaks down Kentucky's point of view ahead of Clemson's matchup with the Wildcats.

For a matchup between two teams that have "underperformed" this season, the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl has a distinctly competitive and fun feel to it this year as Kentucky (7-5) and No. 22 Clemson (8-4) both come into the game with something to prove. 

As we try to do as much as possible, we went to the opposing team to get their perspective. Andrew Stefaniak of Wildcats Today, Kentuck's SI site, was kind enough to give us his point of view on this one.

Kentucky's Ray Davis is expected to play in the Gator Bowl against Clemson / Jacob Noger - Kentucky Athletics

How does Kentucky's offense match up with Clemson's front seven? A.S.: Kentucky will try and run the football with Ray Davis who will suit up in this bowl game. Clemson is a top 25 team when it comes to stopping the run so that aspect will make or break the game for both teams. Davis playing in this game will be a big boost for the Cats as he is one of the best backs in all of college football.

Clemson is finishing up an 8-4 campaign that many call "disappointing". At 7-5, what's the mood in Lexington around the program? A.S.: It was definitely a disappointing season after the expectations heading in with Devin Leary as your quarterback but the win over the ranked Louisville Cardinals (Kentucky's biggest rival) really made the vibe around Lexington much more positive.

How much would a win over Clemson mean going into the offseason? A.S.: It would be huge for the Cats. Kentucky has already been firing on all cylinders in the transfer portal and a win over one of the best programs in college football would be an easy sell for this coaching staff.

Who needs to have a big game for the Wildcats to win? A.S.: Deone Walker (DL) and the previously mentioned Ray Davis (RB) need to play well for the Cats to win this game. They are both a huge part of this team on their respective side of the ball. For Davis to play well the Kenutkchy offensive line will need to make holes which will be challenging against Clemson's front seven.